Dentist School in Kansas - KS

By RSWiese, allied health world contributing writer
Published: October, 21 2010

Find the right school for you

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Dental schools have very stringent admissions requirements as it is a highly competitive field. Students should strive to be well-grounded in science, mathematics, and physics, but should also have a good foundation in technology, communication, and patient care. Research as an undergraduate is beneficial to help an applicant stand out, as is volunteer work in a dental office, lab, or clinic.

Prior to admission to a dental school, students must take the Dental Admission Test (DAT). This four hour multiple choice exam evaluates student aptitude in natural sciences, perceptual ability, and comprehension and reasoning abilities. A good score on the DAT enhances the possibility of being admitted to your desired dental school.

Once accepted at a school of dentistry, students follow a curriculum that provides a variety of learning opportunities. Biomedical classes and labs or practicums promote not only acquisition, but also application of knowledge and skills. Some schools use a “team dentistry” approach that allows first-year students through fourth-year students to work together in a clinical setting. As students become more educated and receive clinical experience in each year of study, the level of interaction and treatment opportunities with real patients increases. Fourth-year students often run their own “dental practice” by delivering comprehensive care to a pool of patients while still under the supervision of educators and licensed dentists.