Dentist in Woodbridge – What It Takes To Become A Dentist A career as a dentist is a rewarding and well paying occupation. In 2010, there were over 155,700 dentists in the United States, with high prospects for growth, and many of them were located in Woodbridge, Virginia. If you want to join the ranks of the many dentists nationwide and become a dentist in Woodbridge, here’s what you will have to do.
Get a bachelor’s degree
Before you can go to dental school to become a dentist, you will need to get a bachelor’s degree. This type of degree takes four years to complete at an average college or university in the United States. Most dentists choose to get their degree in a science-related field such as chemistry or biology. This is because you will be tested on the knowledge you obtained in your science classes when you begin the application process to dental schools.
Pass the DAT
Once you have a bachelor’s degree, you will need to take and pass the Dental Admissions Test (DAT). This test covers a wide range of subjects that determines what type of a candidate you will be for dental schools. If you want to be a dentist in Woodbridge, you should try and get a reasonably high score. A high score will boost your applications and set you apart from other candidates when you apply to school.
Apply and go to dental school
After you have taken the DAT, you will be eligible to apply to dental schools. Pick one that is renowned for their dental program and is located in a place where you would enjoy living. Dental school takes four years to complete so you don’t want to be stuck in a place where you don’t like living. Once you have been admitted to a dental school, you will be instructed on the various procedures that dentists encounter everyday and given experience working on people’s mouths in order to prepare you for your first job.
Start practicing
After you have completed dental school, you will be given a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree. This degree states that you are qualified to be a dentist in Woodbridge. If you want to pursue your dental education further, you can choose to become licensed in a dental specialty. This will typically add two more years to your education. Once you have completed school, apply for jobs at a partnership or private practice. Many dentists prefer to join a partnership because there is already an office space for them to practice in and clients to take care of.