Dentistry

Dentistry is a healthcare field that combines science and art into a rewarding career with a high degree of autonomy. The dental field comprises a variety of different professional avenues. General dentists administer preventative and restorative care and provide services such as oral exams, fillings, and crowns  to their patients. Specialized dental providers such as orthodontists, periodontists, and endodontists are trained to provide more specific care in their respective areas of work. Dentists collaborate within a team of health care professionals (hygienists, dental assistants, general dentists, and specialized dental providers) to provide comprehensive oral health care. Dental professionals utilize skills such as communication, leadership, problem-solving, and compassion to care for their community.

As a dentist, you’ll be part of a larger dental community that values community service and life-long learning through continued education opportunities and a multitude of research studies. Dental school is 4 years of study with an optional two to six years of study for specializing in orthodontics, periodontics, pediatric dentistry, oral surgery, etc. Optional residency programs in general dentistry are also available and typically last about 12 months.

Everybody’s pre-dental journey is different. Some students come to Carleton knowing they would like to pursue a career in dentistry. Others begin their pre-dental path later during their undergraduate years. Based on a student’s pre-health path, some Carls choose to take one or multiple gap years while others begin dental school right after graduation. Wherever you are on your pre-health path, Carleton has the resources and support you need to help you navigate your personal goals!

As of 2024, there are 70 accredited dental schools in the United States. Class sizes vary based on institution type (private/state related, private non-profit, private for-profit, and public) and specific school. Acceptance rates to dental school varies as well based on in-state residency (between 0% to 60% acceptance rate for in-state residents). On average, overall national acceptance rates to individual dental schools are between 5-10%. For more specific information, please visit the resources tab.

You can find more information about preparing for dental school here: 

• American Dental Education Association (ADEA)
• American Dental Association (ADA)

Dental Schools

Carls are accepted to dental schools all over the US. Below is a list of CODA-accredited dental schools. Schools in bold are where some Carls have chosen to attend.