How many years to be able a dentist?
It typically takes eight to 11 years to become a dentist. Here is a breakdown of the education and training required:
B.S./B.A. Degree (four years)
_Typical coursework:_
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- English
- Math
Dental School (four years)
_Typical coursework:_
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Pharmacology
- Microbiology
- Oral surgery
- Prosthodontics
Residency (one to three years)
During residency, dentists receive hands-on training in a variety of dental specialties, such as:
- General dentistry
- Oral surgery
- Orthodontics
- Pediatric dentistry
Licensure
In order to practice dentistry, dentists must pass the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) and obtain a license from their state's dental board.
So, to become a dentist, it typically takes four years of college, four years of dental school, and one to three years of residency, for a total of eight to 11 years.