Pre-Dental Track

What a Pre-Dental Student Studies

• One year of general chemistry (lecture and lab)
• One semester of pre–organic chemistry
• One year of organic chemistry (lecture and lab)
• One year of biology
• One year of physics
• Math (precalculus or calculus)
• One year of English composition
• Some dental schools also require courses in, for example, anatomy, physiology, and microbiology.

For more details on coursework, download the Pre-Health Professions Handbook (PDF).

What Are Dental School Degree Options

Dentists hold a doctorate in dentistry. There are two equivalent degree titles:

• Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.)
• Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.)

How to Prepare for the DAT

All dental schools require applicants to take the DAT as a component of their admission process.

Visit the ADA DAT prep center.

How to Apply to Dental Schools

Individuals planning to apply to dental school will do so one year before they wish to enter a dental program.

Applicants are encouraged to start early, to allow themselves sufficient time to obtain all supporting documents.

The dental school admissions vary by dental school but typically include:

• taking the Dental Admission Test (DAT),
• submitting an application to the ADEA AADSAS® (ADEA Associated American Dental Schools Application Service),
• submitting additional materials requested by each dental school, and
• interviewing at dental schools

Visit ADEA for details.

What Happens at Dental School Interviews

The majority of dental schools require an interview for entrance into a class. The process and timing will vary by school and can be in the form of one-on-one, group, or multiple mini-interviews. Usually, they are conducted by members of the school’s admissions committee.

What to Expect in Dental School

Dental programs typically take four years.

The first two years emphasize basic sciences such as anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and oral histology. You’ll also learn about dental materials, radiology, and infection control.

Preclinical training involves working in simulation labs to master essential techniques like cavity preparation, crown placement, and restorative procedures on dental models.

In the third and fourth years, the focus shifts to clinical practice. Students treat real patients under the supervision of experienced dentists. Rotations cover various specialties, including orthodontics, periodontics, oral surgery, pediatric dentistry, and prosthodontics. This hands-on experience is essential for developing technical skills, patient communication, and diagnostic abilities.

Time management is critical, as balancing coursework, lab work, and patient care can be demanding. Students must also prepare for the National Board Dental Examinations (NBDE) and regional licensing exams.