Where do you go to school be a dentist?

To become a dentist, one needs to complete a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from an accredited dental school. In the United States and Canada, dental schools typically require a bachelor's degree and successful completion of the Dental Admission Test (DAT) for admission. The duration of dental school programs is usually four academic years, during which students learn about the oral anatomy, physiology, pathology, and treatment of diseases affecting the teeth, gums, and oral cavity. The curriculum includes both didactic coursework and clinical training, where students gain hands-on experience in providing dental care under the supervision of experienced dental faculty and practitioners. After completing dental school, graduates are required to pass the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) and obtain a state license to practice dentistry. Additionally, many dentists pursue further specialty training through residencies or advanced education programs to specialize in areas such as orthodontics, endodontics, periodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgery, or pediatric dentistry.