Dentistry, the branch of medicine concerned with the study, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases, disorders, and conditions of the oral cavity, commonly known as the mouth, is a highly esteemed profession that offers numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth. To become a dentist, an individual must successfully navigate a comprehensive educational and training pathway that typically spans over a decade.
The journey towards becoming a dentist commences with the pursuit of a bachelor's degree, often in a science-related field such as biology or chemistry. Upon completion of undergraduate studies, aspiring dentists must then successfully complete four years of dental school, where they receive specialized training in various aspects of dentistry, including anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and clinical dentistry. Following dental school, graduates must pass rigorous national and state board examinations to obtain licensure to practice dentistry.