Becoming a Dentist: Education, Training & Timeline

It typically takes eight to 11 years to become a dentist. Here is a breakdown of the education and training required:

B.S./B.A. Degree (four years)

_Typical coursework:_

- Biology

- Chemistry

- Physics

- English

- Math

Dental School (four years)

_Typical coursework:_

- Anatomy

- Physiology

- Pharmacology

- Microbiology

- Oral surgery

- Prosthodontics

Residency (one to three years)

During residency, dentists receive hands-on training in a variety of dental specialties, such as:

- General dentistry

- Oral surgery

- Orthodontics

- Pediatric dentistry

Licensure

In order to practice dentistry, dentists must pass the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) and obtain a license from their state's dental board.

So, to become a dentist, it typically takes four years of college, four years of dental school, and one to three years of residency, for a total of eight to 11 years.