Like medical school, a typical
dental curriculum lasts four years and provides a background in
the basics of general dentistry practice. Dental students learn
essential organ systems, diseases, treatments and surgical
techniques. Dental graduates must also be familiar with the
differences in adult and pediatric care. They acquire their
knowledge and skills through a combination of classroom lecture,
lab work and interacting with patients.
The curriculum should also prepare you for the National Board
Dental Examination. Graduates must receive a passing score on
this test in order to receive a license to practice. To give you
an idea of the most basic concepts you�ll learn in dental school,
here is a list of the content that�s tested on the NBDE*:
Anatomic Sciences
Behavioral Science
Biochemistry-Physiology
Dental Anatomy and Occlusion
Dental Public Health and Occupational Safety
Endodontics
Microbiology-Pathology
Operative Dentistry
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery/Pain Control
Oral Pathology and Radiology
Orthodontics / Pediatric Dentistry
Periodontics
Pharmacology
Prosthodontics
Some dental programs follow models used in a few M.D. and D.O.
programs by concentrating on one organ system at a time. There
are also schools that teach their classes in small groups rather
than large lectures, as well as relying more on case studies for
instruction. Be sure to research the structure of each school�s
curriculum before you make your final choice.
