Compile a list of four or five people and their contact information. These people should be able and willing to speak highly of your ability and passion for dentistry, including both the academic demands of dental school and the practical application of dental knowledge. If possible, include on your list several dentists or pre-dental professors who are familiar with your work. Their recommendations will carry the most weight with the admissions officers.
Begin early. Send your letters at least two weeks in advance of your admissions deadline. This will allow them time to compose a thoughtful recommendation for you and clarify any questions they may have.
Write a professional and personalized letter to each person on your list. Begin by telling them of your future plans, including why you are interested in dentistry and what you plan to do once you graduate from dental school. Include any recent honors you have received, especially academic or dental practice recognition. Also acknowledge your gratitude for any specific work or research in dentistry that you have completed with their guidance. This not only reminds them but also gives them easily accessible details about your performance to include in their recommendation. Conclude by thanking them and apprising them of any approaching deadlines.
Include your resume or curricula vitae with the letter. This will also assist your contacts with details to draw on in their letters to the dental school. Address the envelopes and send the packets.
Follow up with your contacts. If they have not responded within a week to confirm the receipt of your packet, send a follow-up letter to ask if they have received the packet and also briefly summarize the first letter. If they have responded, send them a thank-you note expressing your gratitude.