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My dream is to become a dentist, but I have no clue where to start i don't know what the best college to apply too is. Can someone please let me know
I do want to stay in california but i am unaware of all my options.
7 answers
Updated
Laxman’s Answer
If you want to become a dentist in California, first complete a Bachelor’s degree (usually in biology, chemistry, or health sciences). After that, you’ll need to take the DAT (Dental Admission Test) and then apply to dental schools. Some of the best options in California are UCSF, UCLA, USC, and Loma Linda University. While in college, focus on good grades, volunteering, and shadowing dentists to build experience.
👉 Start with choosing a good undergrad program in California, then prepare for DAT, and aim for one of these dental schools.
👉 Start with choosing a good undergrad program in California, then prepare for DAT, and aim for one of these dental schools.
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Alexa !
Your best bet is to not think of it all at once because it is a process and if you are in high school right now, you can focus on where to go to college first. Dental School comes later.
There are a few ways to do this path. First let's discuss the one way, going to a University for a Bachelors taking a pre-dental path. That means that you would major in a human science and take courses connected to biology, chemistry, anatomy, etc. There is no major called Pre-Dental. Explore The University of the Pacific first (you may have heard of it referred to as UOP). It is in Stockton, CA. Although I like that you can go there for the entire path, they have a 3 + 3 program and that means you'd get your Bachelors in 3 years before enrolling in their Dental School. I don't recommend rushing or short cutting any degree for a health related career, however.
You can also look into UCLA, USC, UC Berkley, UC San Diego, or Stanford University. These colleges have strong pre-health sciences and they have pre-health career support there for the students. They provide prerequisite courses for dental schools and advisement for their students.
The other way that you can do this is to find a community college near you that offers a degree in Dental Assistant. Obtain your Associates Degree in Dental Assisting, transfer to a State University for a Bachelors in one of the health science subjects and then go to Dental School. You can also begin at a four year university for a Bachelors Degree in a health science subject and then go to Dental School.
Don't worry too much about Dental School right now. Take it one step at a time. If you're in High School now, explore colleges first. You are beginning right now by striving for good grades in High School and taking all of the life sciences you can which will prepare you for college. It's not much of a confusing path - college and then Dental School.
The reason that I say not to "worry about" Dental School right now is because during your path for your Bachelors Degree, you will become very informed and aware of your options. You don't need to know them now. During the course of being in your classes and available information at that time, you'll be able to make a better choice of which Dental School to go to. Remember to make strong connections with everyone on campus at college and also visit their Career Center for information, too.
My own opinion for your Bachelors Degree would be UC Berkeley or UC San Diego. Although I like that you can go to UOP for the entire path (Bachelor through Dental School), I am not in favor of a 3 + 3 path for it. I believe that all health related careers need the full four years for a Bachelors Degree. You can find out if UOP has a regular pre-dental path for four years. Please do not short change yourself for a career in dental.
After you do some first hand exploring, you will see that you'll be able to stay in California. Go to the college's websites and read their science programs. After becoming more informed, you'll see how easy it is to make a choice. Also view the campuses at You Tube if they have a channel. Many colleges have tour and information videos on You Tube.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
Your best bet is to not think of it all at once because it is a process and if you are in high school right now, you can focus on where to go to college first. Dental School comes later.
There are a few ways to do this path. First let's discuss the one way, going to a University for a Bachelors taking a pre-dental path. That means that you would major in a human science and take courses connected to biology, chemistry, anatomy, etc. There is no major called Pre-Dental. Explore The University of the Pacific first (you may have heard of it referred to as UOP). It is in Stockton, CA. Although I like that you can go there for the entire path, they have a 3 + 3 program and that means you'd get your Bachelors in 3 years before enrolling in their Dental School. I don't recommend rushing or short cutting any degree for a health related career, however.
You can also look into UCLA, USC, UC Berkley, UC San Diego, or Stanford University. These colleges have strong pre-health sciences and they have pre-health career support there for the students. They provide prerequisite courses for dental schools and advisement for their students.
The other way that you can do this is to find a community college near you that offers a degree in Dental Assistant. Obtain your Associates Degree in Dental Assisting, transfer to a State University for a Bachelors in one of the health science subjects and then go to Dental School. You can also begin at a four year university for a Bachelors Degree in a health science subject and then go to Dental School.
Don't worry too much about Dental School right now. Take it one step at a time. If you're in High School now, explore colleges first. You are beginning right now by striving for good grades in High School and taking all of the life sciences you can which will prepare you for college. It's not much of a confusing path - college and then Dental School.
The reason that I say not to "worry about" Dental School right now is because during your path for your Bachelors Degree, you will become very informed and aware of your options. You don't need to know them now. During the course of being in your classes and available information at that time, you'll be able to make a better choice of which Dental School to go to. Remember to make strong connections with everyone on campus at college and also visit their Career Center for information, too.
My own opinion for your Bachelors Degree would be UC Berkeley or UC San Diego. Although I like that you can go to UOP for the entire path (Bachelor through Dental School), I am not in favor of a 3 + 3 path for it. I believe that all health related careers need the full four years for a Bachelors Degree. You can find out if UOP has a regular pre-dental path for four years. Please do not short change yourself for a career in dental.
After you do some first hand exploring, you will see that you'll be able to stay in California. Go to the college's websites and read their science programs. After becoming more informed, you'll see how easy it is to make a choice. Also view the campuses at You Tube if they have a channel. Many colleges have tour and information videos on You Tube.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
Updated
Sophie’s Answer
Hi Alexa,
Thinking about a career in dentistry is exciting, and you're off to a great start by gathering information. Begin by chatting with people around you. Your dentist can share valuable experiences and insights. If you know family friends in the dental field, they can offer personal advice too. Plus, there are many resources available online from professional organizations and dental schools. Don't overlook your school's career services; they can connect you with professionals and provide guidance. By exploring all these options, you'll be well-prepared to make a decision about your future. Good luck on your journey!
Thinking about a career in dentistry is exciting, and you're off to a great start by gathering information. Begin by chatting with people around you. Your dentist can share valuable experiences and insights. If you know family friends in the dental field, they can offer personal advice too. Plus, there are many resources available online from professional organizations and dental schools. Don't overlook your school's career services; they can connect you with professionals and provide guidance. By exploring all these options, you'll be well-prepared to make a decision about your future. Good luck on your journey!
Updated
Bhagesh’s Answer
Alexa, your dream of becoming a dentist is inspiring—and you're already taking the first step by asking questions. The journey typically starts with earning a bachelor’s degree, ideally in a science-related field like biology or chemistry, followed by applying to dental school.
California state is home to some of the top dental schools in the country, offering everything from pre-dental programs to full DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) degrees.
- University of California, San Francisco (UCSF)
- UC Berkely
- University of Southern California (USC)
- University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
- University of the Pacific (Stockton)
- Loma Linda University
To get started, focus on doing well in high school science courses, join clubs like HOSA or pre-health groups, and look into colleges that offer strong pre-dental tracks. You’ll also want to prepare for the Dental Admission Test during college, which is required for dental school applications.
You may follow this roadmap to start with. Feel free to tweak it as you go on.
High School: Hold a wise grip over the following subject matters.
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics (Algebra, Geometry, Pre-Calculus, Calculus)
+ Join the following:
- Science Club or Pre-Health Club
- HOSA
- Volunteering at Dental Clinics or Hospitals - This will help you shows initiative and build real-world experience
- Shadowing a Dentist – Ask local dentists if you can observe their work
- Join student government, clubs, or community projects
College Planning:
California state is home to some of the top dental schools in the country, offering everything from pre-dental programs to full DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) degrees. You should do your research well.
- University of California, San Francisco (UCSF)
- UC Berkely
- University of Southern California (USC)
- University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
- University of the Pacific (Stockton)
- Loma Linda University
- Prepare for the SAT/ACT – Strong scores help with admissions and scholarships
- Build a Resume – Include academics, leadership, volunteering, and any dental-related experience
- Write a Strong Personal Statement – Share your passion for dentistry and your journey so far
- Apply for Scholarships– Look for pre-health or STEM scholarships to reduce debt
Bachelor’s Degree:
Choose a major like Biology, Chemistry or Health Sciences, and build a strong knowledge along with hands-on (lab) experience. It will be helpful for your career progression.
Prepare for the DAT (Dental Admission Test)
- Natural Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Organic Chemistry)
- Anatomy, Physiology, Psychology, Sociology
- Perceptual Ability
- Reading Comprehension
- Quantitative Reasoning
Applying to Dental School
Application Checklist:
- Strong GPA (aim for 3.5+)
- Competitive DAT score
- Letters of recommendation (including one from a dentist)
- Personal statement
- Dental experience (shadowing, volunteering, research)
- Apply through - https://www.adea.org/AADSAS
Alexa, every step you take builds your future. Stay curious, stay kind, and keep pushing forward. You’re not just preparing for a career—you’re preparing to change lives with every smile you restore.
All the best!! Keep shining
Best,
Bhagesh Pant
https://www.adea.org/AADSAS/
https://edurank.org/medicine/dentistry/california/
https://missiongraduatenm.org/best-dental-schools-in-california/
https://bootcamp.com/dat
https://www.kaptest.com/dat
California state is home to some of the top dental schools in the country, offering everything from pre-dental programs to full DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) degrees.
- University of California, San Francisco (UCSF)
- UC Berkely
- University of Southern California (USC)
- University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
- University of the Pacific (Stockton)
- Loma Linda University
To get started, focus on doing well in high school science courses, join clubs like HOSA or pre-health groups, and look into colleges that offer strong pre-dental tracks. You’ll also want to prepare for the Dental Admission Test during college, which is required for dental school applications.
You may follow this roadmap to start with. Feel free to tweak it as you go on.
High School: Hold a wise grip over the following subject matters.
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics (Algebra, Geometry, Pre-Calculus, Calculus)
+ Join the following:
- Science Club or Pre-Health Club
- HOSA
- Volunteering at Dental Clinics or Hospitals - This will help you shows initiative and build real-world experience
- Shadowing a Dentist – Ask local dentists if you can observe their work
- Join student government, clubs, or community projects
College Planning:
California state is home to some of the top dental schools in the country, offering everything from pre-dental programs to full DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) degrees. You should do your research well.
- University of California, San Francisco (UCSF)
- UC Berkely
- University of Southern California (USC)
- University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
- University of the Pacific (Stockton)
- Loma Linda University
- Prepare for the SAT/ACT – Strong scores help with admissions and scholarships
- Build a Resume – Include academics, leadership, volunteering, and any dental-related experience
- Write a Strong Personal Statement – Share your passion for dentistry and your journey so far
- Apply for Scholarships– Look for pre-health or STEM scholarships to reduce debt
Bachelor’s Degree:
Choose a major like Biology, Chemistry or Health Sciences, and build a strong knowledge along with hands-on (lab) experience. It will be helpful for your career progression.
Prepare for the DAT (Dental Admission Test)
- Natural Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Organic Chemistry)
- Anatomy, Physiology, Psychology, Sociology
- Perceptual Ability
- Reading Comprehension
- Quantitative Reasoning
Applying to Dental School
Application Checklist:
- Strong GPA (aim for 3.5+)
- Competitive DAT score
- Letters of recommendation (including one from a dentist)
- Personal statement
- Dental experience (shadowing, volunteering, research)
- Apply through - https://www.adea.org/AADSAS
Alexa, every step you take builds your future. Stay curious, stay kind, and keep pushing forward. You’re not just preparing for a career—you’re preparing to change lives with every smile you restore.
All the best!! Keep shining
Best,
Bhagesh Pant
Bhagesh recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Ekta’s Answer
A great first step is to talk to your dentist during your next visit. Ask if you can spend a day or two shadowing them to see if dentistry is the right path for you. If you're interested, you can become a registered dental assistant (RDA) and work part-time while in college. I was an RDA in Texas, working one day a week before dental school, and it really helped my profile.
https://www.dbc.ca.gov/applicants/become_licensed_rda.shtml#:~:text=Dental%20Assisting%20Education%20(Nonboard%E2%80%93Approved,Approved%20Educational%20Programs%20and%20Courses.)
https://www.dbc.ca.gov/applicants/become_licensed_rda.shtml#:~:text=Dental%20Assisting%20Education%20(Nonboard%E2%80%93Approved,Approved%20Educational%20Programs%20and%20Courses.)
Updated
Vinay’s Answer
Becoming a dentist in the USA involves several steps and takes a significant amount of time and effort. Here's a breakdown of the process based on my search:
**Steps to Become a Dentist in the USA:**
1. **Earn a Bachelor's Degree:** You'll need to complete a four-year undergraduate degree. While there isn't a specific required major, many aspiring dentists choose science-related fields like biology, chemistry, or physics to fulfill the prerequisite coursework for dental school.
2. **Gain Practical Experience:** Dental schools often look for applicants with some experience in the healthcare field. This can include internships, shadowing dentists, or volunteering in settings where you interact with patients.
3. **Take the Dental Admissions Test (DAT):** The DAT is a standardized test that assesses your knowledge in natural sciences, perceptual ability, reading comprehension, and quantitative reasoning. A strong score on the DAT is crucial for dental school applications.
4. **Earn a DDS or DMD Degree:** After completing your bachelor's degree and the DAT, you'll need to apply to dental school. Dental school is typically a four-year program that leads to either a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. Both degrees are equivalent and follow the same curriculum.
5. **Obtain Licensure:** After graduating from dental school, you must obtain a license to practice dentistry in the specific state or territory where you want to work. Licensure requirements vary by state but generally involve meeting educational requirements, passing a written examination (the Integrated National Board Dental Examination - INBDE), and completing a clinical assessment.
6. **Complete a Residency Program (Optional):** If you're interested in specializing in a particular area of dentistry (e.g., orthodontics, oral surgery), you'll need to complete a residency program after dental school. Residencies typically last two to three years, with some specialties requiring longer training.
**Key Considerations:**
* **Academic Performance:** Strong academic performance in your undergraduate studies is essential for getting accepted into dental school.
* **Dental School Acceptance Rates:** Dental school acceptance rates can be competitive, so it's important to have a strong application that highlights your academic achievements, practical experience, and DAT score.
* **Accreditation:** Ensure that the dental school you attend is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). Attending an accredited program is usually a requirement for licensure in most states.
* **Cost:** Becoming a dentist involves significant financial investment, including tuition for undergraduate and dental school, as well as costs associated with the DAT and licensure.
* **Specialization:** If you choose to specialize, you'll need to complete additional training through a residency program. The duration and cost of residencies can vary depending on the specialty.
* **International Dentists:** If you received your dental education outside of the USA, you may need to complete an advanced standing program at a CODA-accredited dental school in the USA to be eligible for licensure.
The path to becoming a dentist in the USA is challenging but rewarding. It requires dedication, strong academic performance, and practical experience.
Do you have any other questions about becoming a dentist in the USA, or would you like me to search for more specific information?
**Steps to Become a Dentist in the USA:**
1. **Earn a Bachelor's Degree:** You'll need to complete a four-year undergraduate degree. While there isn't a specific required major, many aspiring dentists choose science-related fields like biology, chemistry, or physics to fulfill the prerequisite coursework for dental school.
2. **Gain Practical Experience:** Dental schools often look for applicants with some experience in the healthcare field. This can include internships, shadowing dentists, or volunteering in settings where you interact with patients.
3. **Take the Dental Admissions Test (DAT):** The DAT is a standardized test that assesses your knowledge in natural sciences, perceptual ability, reading comprehension, and quantitative reasoning. A strong score on the DAT is crucial for dental school applications.
4. **Earn a DDS or DMD Degree:** After completing your bachelor's degree and the DAT, you'll need to apply to dental school. Dental school is typically a four-year program that leads to either a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. Both degrees are equivalent and follow the same curriculum.
5. **Obtain Licensure:** After graduating from dental school, you must obtain a license to practice dentistry in the specific state or territory where you want to work. Licensure requirements vary by state but generally involve meeting educational requirements, passing a written examination (the Integrated National Board Dental Examination - INBDE), and completing a clinical assessment.
6. **Complete a Residency Program (Optional):** If you're interested in specializing in a particular area of dentistry (e.g., orthodontics, oral surgery), you'll need to complete a residency program after dental school. Residencies typically last two to three years, with some specialties requiring longer training.
**Key Considerations:**
* **Academic Performance:** Strong academic performance in your undergraduate studies is essential for getting accepted into dental school.
* **Dental School Acceptance Rates:** Dental school acceptance rates can be competitive, so it's important to have a strong application that highlights your academic achievements, practical experience, and DAT score.
* **Accreditation:** Ensure that the dental school you attend is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). Attending an accredited program is usually a requirement for licensure in most states.
* **Cost:** Becoming a dentist involves significant financial investment, including tuition for undergraduate and dental school, as well as costs associated with the DAT and licensure.
* **Specialization:** If you choose to specialize, you'll need to complete additional training through a residency program. The duration and cost of residencies can vary depending on the specialty.
* **International Dentists:** If you received your dental education outside of the USA, you may need to complete an advanced standing program at a CODA-accredited dental school in the USA to be eligible for licensure.
The path to becoming a dentist in the USA is challenging but rewarding. It requires dedication, strong academic performance, and practical experience.
Do you have any other questions about becoming a dentist in the USA, or would you like me to search for more specific information?
Updated
Romina’s Answer
Dear Alexa:
I love your determination and clarity regarding your professional future. By maintaining that attitude and maintaining a disciplined study schedule, you have 50% of what it takes to become a dental professional.
You will undoubtedly know how to find the way to achieve your goals!
I love your determination and clarity regarding your professional future. By maintaining that attitude and maintaining a disciplined study schedule, you have 50% of what it takes to become a dental professional.
You will undoubtedly know how to find the way to achieve your goals!
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