Any dentists out there?!
Question: I am in college and considering dentistry. I was told a bachelors in biology is good to have. how true is that? and what is the type of material on the DAT? like basic school subjects? How difficult is admission into dental school? is it worth it? thanks!
Answers: I am in college and considering dentistry. I was told a bachelors in biology is good to have. how true is that? and what is the type of material on the DAT? like basic school subjects? How difficult is admission into dental school? is it worth it? thanks!
A bachelors degree in ANYTHING is a good idea, and I'd say Biology is one of the better ones, but I can remember folks in my class coming from all sorts of backgrounds...everything from Accounting, Art, History, Finance, Chemistry, Psychology, and Zoology. Dental schools aren't looking to put together a class made up of clones. Major in the subjects you enjoy and maintain a good GPA (3.25 or better), with one caveat...
The DAT is made up of General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Biology. Regardless of your major, you'll want to take those courses as electives in order to prepare yourself for the exam, and dental schools are going to look for them in your transcripts. Also, once in Dental School, you won't have a choice of subjects, and you'll be required to take Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Histology, Pathology, etc. Any exposure you've had to those subjects prior to dental school would be helpful, but it isn't a necessity. With all of these sciences, though, you can see why folks suggest majors that take them into account.
Also on the DAT is a perceptual abilities test. This is hard to describe, so I'd recommend you check out the website in the "sources" to get a look at sample test questions. It's not something for which you can study...it's just something that takes practice.
Dental schools will look at your college transcripts, extra-curricular activities, letters of recommendation, DAT scores, and your application itself. Dental school is competetive, but is generally considered less so than medical or veterinary schools. Getting any exposure to dentistry is also helpful, whether it be shadowing a dentist, volunteering as an assistant after school, or something else.
Is it worth it? I think so, but only you can know for sure. It's a lot of schooling (and in fact, I went on to specialize, meaning even more school), but it's also a fantastic way to make a good living and still have time for your family. I can't imagine doing anything else.
Hey I'm a dental student now. Biology is a good degree to have although not necessary. You need about two years of biology classes anyway though, and more is always helpful. I majored in math and minored in chemistry though. The DAT contains material from two years worth of chemistry, one year of biology, math, reading, and a perceptual ability part. There are lots of study aids available when you get to that point.
Ok, I think it is totally worth the effort, but I'll be truthful, it is a ton of work, and once you get in, it just gets harder for the next four years. Admission depends on grades, residency (ie if you're trying to get into a state school), experience in the dental field, and DAT scores. I recommend you go spend some time shadowing dentists to help decide if it is worth it to you.