Here is a breakdown of the typical timeline to become a MDS:
General dentistry training
* Years 1-2: Undergraduate college, where you will study the basic sciences and humanities. Some colleges also offer pre-dental programs, which can help you prepare for dental school.
* Years 3-4: Dental school, where you will learn the clinical skills necessary to practice dentistry.
Specialty training
* Years 5-6: MDS degree, which is a specialty program in a particular area of dentistry, such as orthodontics, periodontics, or endodontics.
After completing the MDS program, you will need to pass the National Dental Specialty Examination in order to become a licensed MDS.
Some MDS programs also offer combined degrees, such as the DMD/MDS or DDS/MDS. These programs allow you to earn both a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree and an MDS degree. Combined programs typically take five or more years to complete.