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Dentist: the path

Examine, diagnose, and treat diseases, injuries, and malformations of teeth and gums. May treat diseases of nerve, pulp, and other dental tissues affecting oral hygiene and retention of teeth. May fit dental appliances or provide preventive care. Description from O*NET

Also called: DDS (Dental Surgery Doctor), Dentist, DMD (Dental Medicine Doctor), Endodontist, Family Dentist

Typical pay$170,950Median yearly pay, BLS 2025
Job outlook+5.7% jobsProjected change, 2025–35. All jobs: +3.5%.
Time after high schoolAbout 8 to 11 yearsTypical full-time study and training
  1. Step 1Bachelor’s degree4 years, with science prerequisites
  2. Step 2DAT examDental school entrance test
  3. Step 3Dental school (DDS or DMD)4 years
  4. Step 4Licensing exams and state licenseSpecialties need 2 or more extra years

Typical education to start: Doctoral or professional degree · More on the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook

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Colleges for this path

Related majors: Biology, General · Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology · Chemistry

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College Scorecard, 2024 data. Earnings are the median for graduates of the related majors, 4 years after graduating. All figures are estimates.

Best value = earnings ÷ (net price × years of study). Net prices under $1,000 count as $1,000.

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