Need Guidance: What major for a future in dentistry?

I've been considering dentistry for my career path. Any suggestions on the best undergraduate majors that can prepare me for this?

Choosing your undergraduate major with a focus on dentistry can be a crucial decision for your educational pathway. While there is no specific major that you need to select to get into dental school, majors in the science field are generally a popular choice as they encompass most of the prerequisite courses for dental school.

Biochemistry, Biology, and Chemistry are often chosen due to their inclusion of in-depth science coursework which can help build a solid foundation for the Dental Admission Test (DAT). Biochemistry, for instance, can be beneficial as it covers a major part of the DAT. Additionally, these majors typically include courses in anatomy and microbiology, which will be useful in your further dentistry studies.

However, it's important to note that dental schools also value diversity in their student portfolios. So, if you have a strong interest in a non-science field, such as Sociology or English, don't hesitate to pursue that direction. You just need to ensure that you also complete the necessary science prerequisites for dental school.

Remember, dental schools are not just looking at what you majored in; your overall performance and understanding of the material, exemplified by GPA and DAT scores, will play a significant role in admissions consideration too. So, choose a major that interests you and in which you believe you can excel. This is commonly seen as the best route to take.

Lastly, consider gaining some practical experience in the field, such as shadowing a dentist, participating in healthcare-related volunteer work, or joining a pre-dental club. This can not only solidify your interest in dentistry but also enhance your application when it's time to apply to dental school.