Part One of the Series : Did you read up on…

 Steps to Becoming a Dentist 

One of the most common questions I get is what was the process of becoming a pediatric dentist.

I love my career and look back at the process as being forged from fire. For each step there were

uniquely challenging hurdles and a significant amount of perseverance required. The

process involves 8-14 years of higher education: – Obtaining a bachelor degree (4

years) – Obtaining a doctorate degree (4 years) – If chosen, obtaining a specialty

certificate and/or degree (1-6 years)

A few great resources for those on the pre-dental

journey: 

American Dental Association outline from high school to dental school

becoming a dentist: https://www.ada.org/en/education-careers/careers-in-dentistry/be-a-dentist/high-school-and-college-students 

Summer Educational Program for  Underrepresented Minorities in Dental School: http://www.shpep.org/apply-to-shpep/

Studentdoctor.net was a wonderful resource when I was applying for dental school and

residency. It had a lot of information (taken with a grain of salt) on the community

groups and multiple resources regarding interview prep.

Great Guide for Pre-Dental Students: https://www.studentdoctor.net/how-to-get-into-dental-school/

Dental hygiene is another career many in dentistry consider and involves: – Completing

prerequisites in college (approx. 2 years) – Associates degree (2 years) or a bachelors

degree (4 years) in dental hygiene

Resources on Becoming a Dental Hygienist 

American Dental Education Association:

https://www.adea.org/GoDental/Future_Dental_Hygienists.aspx 

Pros/Cons of Dental Hygiene: https://carrington.edu/blog/pros-cons-dental-hygienist

Hope this helps!

Please ask questions below. Also, if you have suggestions for topics you would  like a quick overview on, drop them below as well.

You CAN Do This!

Take Care

Dr. Niekia Franklin