How long does it take to become a dentist?

How long does it take to become a dentist in the US?

Cleveland Clinic says general dentists spend about eight years in education: four years of undergraduate study plus four years of dental school. The degree awarded is a DDS or DMD, and both mean the dentist graduated from an accredited dental school and carry the same training and scope. After that, dentists must meet state licensing requirements, which the sources we read do not describe in detail.

How long does a dental specialist train?

Cleveland Clinic says dental specialists spend about 10 to 11 years in education, the same eight years plus two to three years of residency. Its list of specialties includes endodontists, oral surgeons, orthodontists, pediatric dentists, periodontists and prosthodontists. The American Academy of Periodontology says a periodontist has four years of college, four of dental school and at least three years of advanced periodontal and implant training, so the length depends on the specialty.

How long does it take in the UK?

NHS Health Careers says becoming a dentist takes at least five years of study at dental school for a degree, followed by one or two years of supervised practice, and some routes are longer, such as a six-year Gateway to Dentistry course. Most entrants need three A grades at A-level, though some schools offer a one-year pre-dental course. The NHS page lists 13 specialties and says postgraduate training includes foundation training, core training and specialist training, but gives no details on their length.

How long does a dentist appointment take?

Cleveland Clinic says most cleanings take 30 to 60 minutes and that special cleanings may take longer. A routine visit may include an exam, X-rays and fluoride on top of the cleaning. The sources we read give no single average for every type of visit, so ask the office how long to allow for your appointment. Fillings, crowns and extractions take different amounts of time, which our guides on each procedure cover.

How long does a cleaning at the dentist take?

Cleveland Clinic says the dentist or hygienist removes plaque and tartar with hand tools or an ultrasonic scaler and then polishes the teeth, with sealants or fluoride sometimes suggested, and X-rays sometimes part of the visit. Its page does not give a time for a deep cleaning, which treats gum disease under the gums with the area numbed. Healthline's cleaning article and our guide on dental cleaning time give more detail.

How long do first visits take, and when should kids start?

A first visit to a new practice may include a longer exam, history and X-rays, so ask the office for the expected time. For children, ADA MouthHealthy says the first visit should happen after the first tooth appears and no later than the first birthday, with the dentist checking teeth, jaw, bite and gums and sometimes cleaning gently.

Becoming a dentist: what the training covers

The sources we read describe the length of training but not the year-by-year curriculum, so we do not give one. Cleveland Clinic's article describes the scope of the work: check-ups, cleanings, fluoride, sealants, fillings, implants and cosmetic care, plus prescribing antibiotics and pain relievers. Entry requirements differ by country, so check the national dental school and licensing body if you are considering the career.

Questions to ask your dentist

Ask the office when you book.

• How long should I allow for this visit?
• Will I have X-rays, and does that add time?
• Is the dentist a general dentist or a specialist?
• If I need follow-up treatment, how many visits will it take?
• Can I come earlier if I have pain?

Frequently asked questions