Pre-Dentistry

Overview

As research evolves, it is becoming increasingly clear that a link exists between oral and systemic “health.” Consequently, the role of the dentist as a health care professional is also evolving, making this field particularly exciting, challenging and – ultimately – rewarding. Much like podiatrists, dentists are schooled in all aspects of medicine but also have advanced training pertinent to their area of expertise – the oral cavity. Paralleling most other professional programs, dental school usually lasts four years beyond the undergraduate degree. Programs in the United States ward either the D.D.S. (Doctor of Dental Surgery) or the D.M.D. (Doctor of Dental Medicine) degree to successful graduates.