The Definitive Guide: What Degree Do You Need to Become a Dentist? (DDS vs. DMD Explained)

Dentistry is more than making smiles—it’s a great job that helps people every single day. If you’ve ever asked, “What degree do you need to be a dentist?” you’re not alone. This guide will explain all the steps, from your first science class to finally being a dentist. You’ll learn what you need, how long it takes, and tips to help you do your best. If you want to help people and like working with your hands, becoming a dentist could be perfect for you.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction: Why Should You Become a Dentist?

I remember when I first went to a dental office as a teenager watching my mom’s friend, Dr. Joe Dental. The way he talked to patients, explained things, and used both science and skill really inspired me. Dentists help people smile, eat, and be healthier. Every day, dentists make things better.

But let’s be real: this job isn’t easy. If you skip steps, your dream might be gone before you know it. That’s why I’m sharing everything you should know, one step at a time. You’ll discover what degrees and tests you need, and what skills help most. If you’re serious about helping others and want a solid job, keep reading—you’ll want all these tips.

2. What Is the Main Degree Needed to Be a Dentist?

You might wonder if there’s only one answer. There are actually two: Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) and Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD). Here’s something that might surprise you—the DDS and DMD are exactly the same! Both mean you can be a full dentist and work anywhere in the United States.

The difference comes down to what each school calls it. DDS and DMD both go through the same schooling and training, and both are checked by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). You’ll study things like mouth anatomy, tools, and how to help patients, no matter where you go.

> Fun Fact: Even some dentists mix up the titles, but don’t worry—once you finish, you can work in any dental job, from general dentist to oral surgeon.

3. Do You Have to Go to College First?

Yes. You need to finish four years of college before going to dental school. Most people choose biology, chemistry, or another science as a major, but dental schools accept any major if you take the correct science classes. That means if you like art or music, you can still be a dentist—just get enough science classes.

Here’s why college matters:

• Dental schools want you to know science well.
• College helps you learn to study, manage your time, and talk with others—skills dentists need.
• You can join pre-dental groups, do research, and start building your dental resume.

4. What Classes Should I Take Before Dental School?

Dental schools list certain “must-have” classes, called prerequisites. These are the important classes that show you’re ready for hard science in dental school. You need good grades in these, too.

Needed Classes:

• General Chemistry (with Lab)
• Organic Chemistry (with Lab)
• Biology (with Lab)
• Physics (with Lab)
• English/Composition

Good Extras:

• Biochemistry (often needed)
• Microbiology
• Anatomy & Physiology

If you’re not sure what to take, talk to a pre-dentistry advisor at your college. They can help you pick the right classes each semester and not miss anything. If your grades are a bit low, some schools offer extra programs to help you raise your science grades.

5. What’s the Dental Admission Test (DAT), and Why Does It Matter?

Before you get into dental school, you need to take the Dental Admission Test (DAT). It’s a tough test that checks your knowledge in science and important skills like reading and solving problems. Schools care a lot about your DAT score because it shows how you might do in dental school.

DAT Parts:

A strong DAT score puts you ahead. Most students who get in score about 20–22 out of 30. If you don’t do well the first time, don’t worry—you can practice more and take it again.

Tip: Use practice tests and study books. Join a study group if you can. Many people spend a summer getting ready for the DAT, and it really helps.

6. How Do You Apply for Dental School?

Applying for dental school means showing them all your hard work and what makes you special. Most schools use AADSAS (Associated American Dental Schools Application Service).

Here’s what they want:

• Transcripts from all colleges you went to
• Personal Statement: Share your story and why you want to be a dentist. Make it personal!
• Letters of Recommendation: Usually from science teachers, dentists you shadowed, or bosses who know you work hard
• List of Shadowing, Volunteering, and Research: Schools want to see you got hands-on experience
• Secondary Applications: Some schools ask more questions or want short essays

If you get an interview, get ready to talk about yourself, answer tricky questions, and maybe pretend to talk to a patient. Many schools use something called the Multiple Mini-Interview (MMI), with short, timed questions.

Problem: Some people worry about standing out or making a mistake when applying.

Agitate: If you don’t have a strong application, you can end up waiting a long time to hear back, or not get in at all.

Solution: Start early, get help from pre-health advisors, and keep working on your essays until they sound like you. Practice interviews with friends, or record yourself and look for ways to get better!

7. What Is Dental School Really Like?

Dental school is four years full of science, practice, and helping patients. The first two years are mostly classes and time in the lab—you’ll study how the body and mouth work, tools, and a lot more.

The last two years are more hands-on:

• You’ll work with real patients, with a dentist watching to help you
• You’ll learn how to help during dental emergencies, do regular cleanings, and sometimes try simple surgeries

Most schools do one subject at a time, and you move to the next after each test. Dental school is tough—it’s a full-time job. You’ll need to keep up with classes, hands-on work, and maybe even research.

A dental student once said: “You have to work a lot, but every new thing you learn gets you closer to being a real dentist.” It’s hard, but your classmates and teachers want to see you finish.

8. Can Dentists Become Specialists?

Yes—a general dentist can study more to become a specialist. After finishing your DDS or DMD, you can apply for more training that lasts two to six years, depending on the specialty. Popular specialties include:

• Orthodontics: Straightens teeth with braces or aligners
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery: Does surgeries, like taking out wisdom teeth or fixing jaw problems
• Pediatric Dentistry: Helps babies, kids, and teenagers
• Periodontics: Focuses on gums and the bone under teeth
• Endodontics: Deals with tooth nerves and root canals
• Prosthodontics: Makes crowns, bridges, and dentures
• Dental Public Health and Research: Studies how to help whole towns or groups with dental health, not just one person

Each specialty has its own rules—sometimes you need extra tests and more practice with patients. If you like high-tech things, you might like working at a digital dental lab, where dental models are made using computers and 3D printers.

9. How Do You Get Your Dental License?

You’re done with dental school—what next? Before working, you need your license. Here’s what that takes:

• Graduate from an approved dental school: Only DDS or DMD programs count
• Pass National Board Exams: These check if you learned everything you need to know
• Pass State or Regional Exams: You work on real patients (or special models) while someone watches
• Keep Learning: Even when you get your license, you have to go to classes to stay up-to-date on new things

If you dream big, you might work at a china dental lab or learn from experts at a crown and bridge lab, getting even better at helping people with their teeth.

10. Is Dentistry a Good Career Choice?

Let’s look closer. The American Dental Association says most dentists find jobs not long after school. Here are some key numbers:

References: American Dental Education Association, US Bureau of Labor Statistics

Good Stuff:

• Dentists get paid very well and can often choose their hours
• You can work for yourself, at a hospital, do research, public health, or teach
• More people need dental care, and new technology makes things even cooler

Tough Stuff:

• School costs a lot and takes a long time
• Getting into dental school is hard
• You’ll work hard, spend lots of time on your feet, and need really steady hands

But if you love helping others—and want to work with new technology, like at a 3d dental lab—this might be just right for you.

11. Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Degrees

Q: Can I be a dentist if I didn’t major in science?

A: Yes, if you take the science classes required.

Q: Are dental school and medical school the same length?

A: Yes, both take four years after college, but dental specializations are often shorter.

Q: What if I studied dentistry in another country?

A: You may need extra classes and more tests to work as a dentist in the United States.

Q: Can I work while in dental school?

A: Some students do part-time jobs, but dental school takes a lot of time.

Q: Is it possible to be a dentist without taking loans?

A: Many students need help paying for school, like loans or scholarships. Start searching for dental school scholarships early.

12. Summary: Takeaway Points for Future Dentists

• You need a college degree, then a DDS or DMD in dental school.
• Dental school needs strong science skills and a good DAT score.
• It takes 8+ years and means lots of studying, helping real patients, and passing tough tests.
• You can study more to specialize in things like braces, surgery, or public dental health.
• Dentists have good-paying jobs, lots of options, and steady work.
• You have to keep learning to keep your license and to stay on top of new technology.

If you want to help people and have a solid, respected job, being a dentist might be perfect. Ask questions, shadow dentists, and follow each step—you’ll be on your way to helping people smile every day!

Article checked by Dr. Joe Dental, DDS, Fellow of the American Dental Association.

Most Important Things to Remember:

• You need a college degree and dental school (DDS or DMD).
• Take the right science classes and do well.
• Get ready early for the DAT and school applications.
• Get real experience by shadowing and helping out.
• Look into dental specialties and labs, like digital, ceramic, or 3D labs, for more choices later on.
• Stay on track—you really can make your dream of being a dentist real!