Degree Needed for Dentistry?

In order to become a dentist, what kind of degree do I need to pursue in college? Are there any specific undergraduate majors that are recommended for aspiring dentists?

To become a dentist, you'll need to attend dental school, which typically requires you to first complete an undergraduate degree. While there is no specific major required for dental school admissions, most dental schools do have prerequisite courses that you must complete during your undergraduate studies. These courses usually include general biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, and some schools may require additional courses like biochemistry, human anatomy, or microbiology.

While there's no one "best" major for aspiring dentists, many students choose to major in sciences such as biology, chemistry, or biochemistry, as these majors often cover the required prerequisite courses. However, dental schools are open to applicants from any major, as long as they have completed the necessary prerequisites and demonstrate a strong academic background. Some students may choose to major in non-science fields such as psychology or English to showcase a well-rounded profile.

In addition to completing prerequisite courses, it is important to maintain a competitive GPA, gain relevant experience through internships or volunteering in a dental setting, and prepare for the Dental Admission Test (DAT), which dental schools use as part of their admissions process.

It's a good idea to research dental schools you're interested in applying to and review their prerequisites and admissions requirements to ensure you're on track during your undergraduate studies. Keep in mind that while the path to dental school may begin with an undergraduate degree, the final result is a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree after successful completion of an accredited dental school program.