Dental Education

Dentists typically complete at least four years of college to prepare for their field. They must take many of the same classes as regular doctors would. Typically, the last two years of college work is spent working with patients, under the guidance of professional dentists. Numerous exams must be passed in order to complete dental licensing. Most dentists end up with around five to eight years of college before becoming practicing doctors. Often they will complete internships or residencies in order to fully prepare themselves after receiving their dental degree. If they choose to specialize in a certain area, obviously additional training would be needed in that speciality. Just as in most professions, dentists are required to keep up with their licensing through continuing their education or taking exams.

There are currently around fifty-seven dental schools throughout the United States. Other countries also have dental schools and programs, however each country may differ somewhat in how or what it teaches. The American Dental Education Association was founded in 1923 and is located in Washington D.C. It is a non-profit association representing dental health. It is also called the "Voice of Dental Education". It helps keep members informed of new research and current issues through it's publications. The association currently has more than 17,500 members.