Founded in 1898, the School of Dentistry at Oregon Health & Science University awards the DMD (doctor of dental medicine) degree to students who successfully complete a 47-month program. The curriculum teaches students about dental disease prevention, biological science and clinical techniques. In addition to core science courses in areas such as anatomy, radiology and biochemistry, students can take electives in specialty areas such as implantology or endodontics. Dental students at OHSU gain clinical experience at a campus clinic and at community dental clinics in the Portland area. Admission is based on a review of undergraduate grades, standardized test scores and recommendations. A minimum GPA of 3.0 overall and in science courses is recommended. OHSU notes that selected applicants are then invited to campus to interview with an admissions committee.
Oregon Health & Science University
School of Dentistry
611 SW. Campus Drive
Portland, OR 97239-3097
503-494-5274
ohsu.edu
The University of Washington's School of Dentistry has provided dental education for more than 50 years. The four-year DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) program requires students to complete lecture and laboratory courses in science, dental anatomy and dental materials, followed by training in clinical skills. Students at UW's school of dentistry must take electives during the third and fourth years of the program, and participate in rotations. Prospective applicants must have completed undergraduate courses in chemistry, physics, biology, biochemistry and microbiology. Students do not need to have degrees in science in order to be considered for admission, however. In addition to undergraduate transcripts, prospective students must take the Dental Admission Test, and selected candidates must interview in person at UW's Seattle campus.
University of Washington School of Dentistry
Seattle, WA 98165-6365
206-543-5840
dental.washington.edu
Licensure is necessary for dentists in all 50 states as well as in the District of Columbia. The American Dental Association, or ADA, notes on its website that while specific requirements may vary by state, all aspiring dentists must meet basic education, clinical, and written examination requirements. Once licensed, a dentist can practice as a generalist or in a specialty area such as orthodontics or periodontics. Dentists stay abreast of new developments in treatments and dental tools by taking continuing education courses. Continuing education courses can be taken online via the ADA's website. Dentists can also earn credits by attending the association's annual session held every October.