To work as a dentist, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• complete at least two years of college;
• take science courses in college;
• graduate from dental school; and
• pass a state exam to get a license.

Education after high school

Most students need four years to complete dental school. Most dental schools award a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree. Others award a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. In dental school, you take courses in anatomy, microbiology, and physiology. In the lab, you learn how to treat patients and do various procedures.

Dental schools require you to have at least two years of college courses before enrolling. Most of the required courses are in the sciences. However, most dental students have a bachelor's degree. It is helpful if you major in pre-dentistry or a life science before entering dental school.

One out of four new graduates of dental school enrolls in a postgraduate training program. These programs prepare you for one of eight dental specialties. This training may last an additional two to four years.

Work experience

Some dental school graduates get more experience by working with an established dentist. You can work as an associate for several years before starting your own practice.

On-the-job training

In the last two years of study, you begin treating patients. Students work in dental clinics under the supervision of licensed dentists.

Military training

The military provides advanced training for dentists. However, it does not provide the initial training to become a dentist.