Early Steps to Take Toward a Career in Dentistry

Young teens and high school students who are seriously considering a career in dentistry may want to begin taking steps down that path much sooner than college. From meeting with someone who already works in the profession to discuss career goals to actually preparing for the DAT, becoming a dentist is a process youngsters can start very early on.

Learning About the Field

Having a passion for great smiles and healthy teeth is certainly a good start to a career in dentistry, but those who are actually pursuing the profession may want a bit of insider information. If possible, young people considering the field may want to ask their own dentist if it would be possible to sit down for a question and answer session; this may clear up any misconceptions a child has about the field, and it will reveal any information that the youngster has been unable to discern on his or her own.

While reading dentistry journals may be ineffective for youth too young to understand them, reading other publications or books about the field may prove to be beneficial; most importantly, it will help the youngster remain connected to his or her dreams in a very real way. Any information or new knowledge gained about a future profession is excellent, after all.

Preparing Through School

Good grades are certainly going to influence the college that a young person attends, which will in turn strongly impact the rest of his or her life. By maintaining strong grades in high school, placing an emphasis on studying biology and physiology and formulating realistic goals, students may find that they have an easier time preparing for their future careers.

College and Beyond

After being accepted to a college of his or her choice, a freshman student may wish to begin preparing for the DAT, or Dental Admission Test. While a college adviser can help students select appropriate classes to achieve their dreams, preparing for the DAT is something that future dentists should do on their own. The exam can only be taken after earning a bachelor's degree, however, so the timing of college is an important step in becoming a dentist. Through careful preparation, hard work, dedication and commitment to helping others, those youngsters who want to become dentists can reach the goals that they have set for their future careers.