How Long Does It Take to Become a Dentist in Canada or the US?

How Long Does It Take to Become a Dentist?

Becoming a dentist usually takes 8 years:

• 4 years of undergraduate studies
• 4 years of dental school

However, the timeline can vary depending on whether you take a gap year, pursue a combined program, or complete additional training. Specializing can add time. In this guide, we’ll break down each stage of the journey and help you map out your path.

What Is the Path to Becoming a Dentist?

Here’s a quick overview of the standard route:

1. Complete a bachelor’s degree (4 years)
2. Take the DAT (Dental Admission Test)
3. Apply and get accepted into dental school
4. Complete dental school (4 years)
5. Get licensed to practice
6. Pursue postdoctoral training (optional)

Let’s explore each step in detail:

Step 1: Complete a Bachelor's Degree (4 Years)

Before you can apply to dental school, you’ll need to earn a bachelor’s degree. Most students choose science-related majors like biology or chemistry, but you can choose any major as long as you complete the required prerequisite courses.

Common prerequisites include:

• General biology with lab
• General chemistry with lab
• Organic chemistry
• Physics
• English
• Biochemistry or microbiology (sometimes required)

Dental schools want to see that you can handle science-heavy coursework. Taking the right courses also prepares you for the DAT.

Use your undergrad years to also build up shadowing hours and dental-related extracurriculars to make your dental school application stronger.

Step 2: Take the Dental Admission Test (DAT)

The DAT is a standardized test required for admission to dental schools in the US and most dental schools in Canada. Most students take it during their junior year of undergrad.

What the DAT tests:

• Natural sciences (biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry)
• Perceptual ability
• Reading comprehension
• Quantitative reasoning

A strong DAT score helps your dental school application stand out. Preparing well can even open doors to more competitive programs. Give yourself 3-6 months to study for the DAT. Consider using professional DAT prep services if you're aiming for top-tier schools.

Step 3: Apply to Dental School

The dental school application process takes about a year. You’ll apply through AADSAS (American Association of Dental Schools Application Service). Be sure to check out our AADSAS application guide.

Application materials might include (check individual schools for specifics):

• Transcripts
• DAT scores
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal statement
• Work and activities section
• Interview (if invited)

Dental school admissions are competitive, so it’s crucial to submit a well-rounded application. Start preparing your application materials early. Consider using professional help to make your application as competitive as possible.

Step 4: Complete Dental School (4 Years)

Once accepted, you’ll attend a 4-year dental program. The first two years focus on classroom learning, while the final two involve hands-on clinical experience.

Year 1-2: Basic sciences, anatomy, physiology, dental materials

Year 3-4: Clinical rotations, patient care, advanced dental techniques

Dental school is where you gain the skills and experience to become a competent, licensed dentist. Network with faculty and mentors who can support your post-grad plans, especially if you want to specialize.

Step 5: Get Licensed to Practice

Before you can practice, you need to be licensed in the state or province where you plan to work.

Licensure requirements can include:

• Graduating from an accredited dental program
• Passing written exams (INBDE in the US or NDEB in Canada)
• Passing a clinical board exam

Without licensure, you legally cannot practice dentistry. Study for licensure exams throughout dental school, not just at the end. This helps reduce stress and increases your chances of passing on the first try.

Step 6: Optional Specialization or Residency (1-6 Years)

Some dentists go on to complete a postdoctoral residency to specialize in areas like:

• Orthodontics
• Pediatric dentistry
• Oral surgery
• Prosthodontics

These residencies can take 1-6 years, depending on the specialty. Specializing can increase your earning potential and open up more career opportunities. If you plan to specialize, build a strong academic record and get involved in relevant research or clinical experiences early on.

Can You Become a Dentist Faster?

Yes, there are ways to shorten the journey:

• Combined BS/DDS or BS/DMD programs: Some schools offer 6-7 year combined programs.
• No gap years: Going straight from undergrad to dental school saves time.
• AP/IB credits: Entering college with credits may reduce your undergrad time.

If you're highly motivated and plan early, you can potentially shave off 1-2 years. Talk to your pre-dental advisor about accelerated pathways and combined programs during your first year of undergrad.

Is Becoming a Dentist Worth It?

While becoming a dentist takes years, it offers great benefits:

• High earning potential (average $190K+ in the US)
• Job stability and strong demand
• Opportunity to help others and build lasting patient relationships

Make sure you're pursuing dentistry for the right reasons. Shadow dentists and talk to current dental students before committing.

Final Thoughts

So, how long does it take to become a dentist? Typically, 8 years from college to licensure, but it can be shorter or longer depending on your path. With smart planning and the right support, you can make the process more efficient and enjoyable.

If you're serious about dentistry, start early and get expert guidance. You can also check out our blogs on how to prepare for the dental school interview or how to get into dental school without a science degree.

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To your success,

Your friends at BeMo

BeMo Academic Consulting