If you’ve ever wondered how long it takes to become a dentist, the short answer is: at least 8 years. But the full story is much more interesting—and might surprise you.
A lot of people ask:
Is a dentist a doctor?
Is a dentist a physician?
What’s a DMD dentist, anyway?
Let’s break down the path to becoming a dentist, what they actually do, and how this career blends science, medicine, and artistry to keep the world smiling.
👨⚕️ First Things First: Is a Dentist a Doctor?
Yes—a dentist is a doctor. While not a “physician” like a medical doctor (MD), dentists hold a doctoral-level degree: either a DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) or DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine). Both are equivalent and fully licensed to diagnose, treat, and perform surgeries involving the mouth, teeth, gums, and jaw.
🧠 Fun Fact: Dentists are often the first to spot signs of chronic disease—like diabetes or cancer—during routine checkups.
⏳ So… How Long Does It Take to Be a Dentist?
The Short Version:
✅ 4 years of college
✅ 4 years of dental school
✅ = 8 years total (not including residency)
Let’s walk through each step.
🎓 Step 1: Bachelor’s Degree (4 Years)
The journey begins with college. Aspiring dentists typically earn a bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, or a related science. But any major is fine as long as you complete the prerequisites for dental school.
🦷 Pro Tip: Shadowing a local dentist or volunteering at a dental clinic during college helps strengthen your dental school application—and helps you confirm it’s the right path for you.
🧪 Step 2: Dental Admission Test (DAT)
Before applying to dental school, students must take the DAT. This exam tests your:
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Science knowledge
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Math skills
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Reading comprehension
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3D spatial reasoning (yes, really!)
🎮 Fun Fact: One section is basically like playing Tetris with invisible shapes—perfect for future dental work.
🏫 Step 3: Dental School (4 Years)
Now the real fun begins. Dental school is 4 years long, and students receive either a:
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DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine), or
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DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery)
📚 The first two years are lecture- and lab-heavy.
🧑⚕️ The last two years are clinical—students treat real patients under supervision.
✅ Step 4: Licensing and Exams
To practice, graduates must:
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Pass the INBDE (Integrated National Board Dental Exam)
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Complete a clinical board exam
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Meet their state’s licensing requirements
🎓 After that, you’re officially a licensed dentist and can begin practicing general dentistry!
🦷 Optional Step: Specialization (1–6 Years)
Some dentists pursue specialties like:
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Pediatric Dentistry
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Periodontics
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Oral Surgery
These require additional training (residency) that can take 1–6 years.
🧠 What do dentists do?
Dentists do more than just “clean teeth.” They diagnose oral diseases, perform complex surgeries, restore damaged teeth, manage pain, create custom prosthetics, and help patients of all ages feel confident in their smile.
📊 Total Time: How Long to Become a Dentist?
| Stage | Time |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree | 4 years |
| Dental School | 4 years |
| Residency (if applicable) | 1–6 years |
| TOTAL | 8–10+ years |
🧑⚕️ FAQ Section
Q: How long does it take to become a dentist?
A: Typically 8 years—4 years of undergraduate study and 4 years of dental school. Specialties may add more.
Q: Is a dentist a doctor or a physician?
A: A dentist is a doctor, holding a DDS or DMD. While not a physician (MD), dentists are licensed to diagnose, treat, and perform surgery on oral and maxillofacial conditions.
Q: What is a DMD dentist?
A: DMD stands for Doctor of Dental Medicine. It’s the same degree as a DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery). Both are fully qualified to practice dentistry.
Q: What do dentists actually do?
A: Dentists perform exams, take X-rays, fill cavities, place crowns, straighten teeth, manage gum disease, perform surgery, and educate patients on oral hygiene and disease prevention.
Q: Can you become a dentist faster?
A: Some “3+4” programs combine undergrad and dental school in 7 years, but they’re rare and highly competitive.
😄 Final Thoughts
Becoming a dentist takes time, discipline, and a real passion for people. It’s not just about teeth—it’s about health, confidence, and connection.
Whether you’re thinking of becoming one or just wanted to know how long it takes to be a dentist, now you know—it’s a long journey, but a meaningful one.
📍At Tribute Family Dentistry, our doctors have gone through this entire journey and bring that dedication to every patient we see in Frisco, TX. Looking for expert care from someone who’s walked the walk? We’re here for you.