Interested in studying dentistry in the US?

I'm considering a career in dentistry and am curious about studying it in the US. What are the requirements for getting into dental programs, and which universities should I look into for a strong dental education?

Firstly, I'm glad to hear you're interested in pursuing dentistry. The path to becoming a dentist in the US typically involves getting a bachelor's degree followed by a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) at a dental school. Here's a brief rundown of what those educational steps might look like.

In order to apply to dental school via the American Dental Education Association’s application service (ADEA AADSAS), you'll firstly need to complete your Bachelor's degree and prerequisites during your undergraduate years. Dental schools generally require coursework in biology, physics, and chemistry, along with English and math. Some also recommend courses in anatomy, microbiology, and biochemistry.

Once you have completed these prerequisites, you'll then have to take the Dental Admission Test (DAT), administered by the American Dental Association (ADA). Scores from the DAT are reported by the ADA directly to dental schools.

Regarding top dental schools, you might want to look into institutions such as the University of Pennsylvania, New York University (NYU), and Tufts University. However, the best school for you will depend on your specific needs and goals. For example, some schools might focus more on research, while others might focus more on clinical education. Review each program's curriculum carefully to make sure they offer what you are looking for in a dental education.

Also, you might want to take advantage of colleges' pre-health advising resources. These advisors can assist you throughout each stage of the application process to dental school, from selecting prerequisite courses to putting together your application.

Ultimately, choosing the right path depends on your personal academic interests and career goals. So it's advised to do some thorough research and consulting to ensure you make the right choice. Good luck in your journey to becoming a dentist!