Getting a Career in Dentistry

Dentistry is an interesting field; it is both a science and an art. It deals with the esthetics, physiology and pathology of the oral cavity. In other words, it is the professional care and knowledge of the teeth, gums, tongue, and cheek. To become a Dentist, one should ideally have an eye for esthetics through symmetry, tooth shade, and harmony of the teeth and smile. One should ideally have knowledge on what is both normal and healthy as opposed to abnormalities and diseases. In short, the dental profession involves the proper diagnosis, treatment and prevention of oral disease [1].

In order to become a dentist, one must undergo intensive training and studying. On average, in the U.S, it takes eight years to complete the courses required to become a dentist. After completing a dental bachelors degree, one can opt to take continual studies in either dental specializations or post-doctoral trainings [2].

Getting Started on the road to becoming a Dentist

Bachelor’s Degree

Before becoming eligible to become a Dentist, a student must first earn a bachelors degree in college. This usually takes two to four years, depending on what course the student takes. It is advised to take a health related course such as  biology or a pre-dental program. Choosing a course of study is important because some dental schools require specific courses before admission [2].

Dental Degree

In order to get into dental school, a student must first pass the dental admissions test. This test can be taken before or after completing the bachelors degree. It can take up to four years to earn a dental degree. During the first two years the student is taught the basics of anatomy, histology, physiology and pathology; their dexterity is then honed in a controlled setting. The last two years are hands on clinical practice under close supervision of a licensed dentist [2].

Licensure Examination

Before a dental graduate can practice their profession, they will have to pass a dental licensure examination administered by their state. The exam is composed of two parts: written and practical. The applicant must pass both parts before obtaining their license [2].

Post-Doctoral Specializations

After completing a dental degree, the student is now a general dentist. They are capable of performing a variety of dental treatments such as crowns, bridges, dentures, restorations, and teeth cleaning [1]. They could even take a specialization for any one of these particular fields. If a dentist decides to follow through with specialization, they will have to gain an in-depth and thorough knowledge on that particular field. A certificate of completion and recognition is thus given to dentists who have successfully completed their post-doctoral trainings. 

Most common post-doctoral specializations

Orthodontists

An orthodontist specializes in diagnosis and treatment of misaligned and crowded teeth. A dentist must study tooth movement and facial development for an additional three to five years before they can call themselves orthodontists [1].

Periodontists

A periodontist specializes in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of gum disease. This field of dentistry specializes in understanding the supporting structure around the tooth, gums and bone. In order to become a periodontist, one will have to study an additional three years following their dental degree [1].

Dental Surgeon

A dental surgeon performs complicated tooth extractions, placements of dental implants, and surgical operations of the oral maxillofacial area. This often includes surgical removal of benign and malignant tumors along the head and neck and surgical treatment of temporo-mandibular joint problems. In order to be a dental surgeon an additional four to seven years of study at a hospital is needed. During these years the perspective dental surgeon will receive hands on training in anesthesiology, emergency medicine and plastic surgery [1].

Endodontist

An endodontist specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of disease involving the pulp – the tooth’s nerve and blood vessels. It is their duty to clean, shape and fill canals of their dental patients. To become an endodontist, a qualified dentist must study and train another two to three years specializing as an endodontist [1].

Prosthodontist

A prosthodontist restores extracted and missing teeth through alteration of dentures or artificial teeth. The dentures can be fixed, removable, complete or partial. Prosthodontists deal largely with esthetics and harmony of dentures with other oral structures. They are also required to study stability and retention of dentures to prevent dislodgment during function. To become a prosthodontist, a qualified dentist will have to study an additional two to three years in this specialization [1].

Pedodontist

A pedodontist is also known as a pediatric dentist. They perform preventive and comprehensive dental treatment on children, from infancy to teenage years. Teeth of the young patient are a lot different compared to adult teeth. The attitude of the child patient is also different. For these reasons a specialized dentist is needed when treating children [1].

References
[1] Unknown Author. (2005, April 4). Fields of Dentistry. Retrieved from  http://www.hsc.stonybrook.edu/dental/thereach/fields.htm
[2] Unknown Author. How Long Does it Take to be a Dentist? Retrieved from http://education-portal.com/how_long_does_it_take_to_be_a_dentist.html