Dentistry?

I'm a freshman student in high school, and I'm very interested in Dentistry. I want to know what it takes to become a dentist (I'm also interested in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery). I have a 4.0 GPA, so I think my grades won't be a problem, although financially, it may be. I've decided to take the highest course (Highly Selective Universities), was this a wise choice for someone wanting to become a dentist? I need to take AP classes in every field (math, english, science, etc.). I've heard for Dentistry you should get very good grades for your science classes (which I do). I've been thinking of, at a point in time, job shadowing a dentist. There are so many things I want to add, but just can't fit it all.

Can a dentist preferably answer this question? What should I do in high school and beyond to be prepared for an occupation in Dentistry? I have looked at ada.org, but I would still love to have a dentist's personal opinion.

Thank you for reading this.

Hi! I've been in dentistry for over 25 years. And the grades are super important, but I also started to work as a dental assistant when I was 16. I worked summers and weekends and that gave me a huge edge when I applied to dental schools. THAT experience not only prepared me as a dental student, but also to run my own business. Working with patients is one thing, but understanding all aspects of a dental practice ins and outs are very important.
Learning about insurance, hiring office manager and assistants and ordering supplies are very important. But also how to have a first rate quality practice makes a dentist a success. I love my patients and also had to learn people skills. Listening and being a compassionate person is very important. Being able to speak about money issues and payment plans is also important. AND you must understand, that each patient has their own uingue issues and need a kind heart and supportive person to be their for them. These you do not learn in dental school. So get a job as an assistant to your dentist or another one near by, keep your eyes and ears open and learn as much as you can. Ask questions and learn about all aspects of a successful practice and the pit falls as well. Good luck, sounds like you have the right attitude and the promise to be first rate. Good luck, and if you have any other questions, please ask. ~M

Hi,

Have you spoken to your dentist about this? That would be the first place to start!

Best of luck to you!

Depends where you live.

I'm an assistant/learning dentist at the moment.

I took a year at Penn State a while ago since its close to where I live.

I mean, I won't want to go to somewhere in California for college.

Anyways, if you have a high GPA, ask you're school administrators if there are any programs for going to college.

Some programs can provide free or highly discounted college fees.

But I'm glad you want to be in the dentistry field.

Just worry about you're grades as you're grades can determine the cost.

Sounds like you're on the right track. Good grades are a must. I would strongly encourage the job shadowing. After high school, I would choose a reputable college with a good science program. Keep up the good attitude and you should do fine. Good Luck

My dentist not recomended me to study this

good luck