Requirements For Becoming a Cosmetic Dentist

All U.S states require a cosmetic dentist to be licensed. Cosmetic dentistry involves a lot of sedation to patients that are looking to improve their smile as painless, as possible. Becoming a cosmetic dentist is considered a specialty. They are trained in fillings, gum lifting, porcelain veneers and teeth whitening.

Most dentist schools require that a minimum associate's degree be obtained, but a bachelor's degree is the common preference, before entering into dental school. An entrance interview and recommendations are to be accompanied with a passing score on the Dental Admissions Test.

There are no subject are requirements needed to apply to dental school, but a Bachelor's degree in the Sciences is recommended. Another good way to better ensure your acceptance into dental school would be to complete one year of biology and organic chemistry.

Dental school generally lasts four years, which include traditional classroom setting as well as hands-on dental practice. You will study under either the Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) program or the Doctor of Dental Medicine degree. The classroom instruction includes chemistry and biology, anatomy, microbiology and physiology. Students will perform lab work within these subjects. The last two years of dental school is where the hands-on comes into the curriculum. Each student is under the supervision of a licensed dentist.

There is no specific focus on cosmetic dentistry in dental school lesson plan, so you will need to seek additional training after graduation.

States licensing requires that a passing score on the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE), be obtained. The NBDE is used to show the knowledge of dental sciences and is made up of two parts.