Dentists identify and treat conditions which affect the gums, teeth and mouth. These professionals provide dental care, oral hygiene advice and perform multiple procedures like, root canals, extractions, etc. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 2,410 general dentists employed in Arizona in 2019.

Should I Become a Dentist in Arizona?

Education Required Professional or doctoral degree
Major Requirement Dentistry
Training Required for specialization
Licenses/Certifications Required
Key Skills Problem Solving Skills, Patience, Leadership Skills, Organization Skills, Dexterity and Communication Skills.
Annual Mean Salary (2019) – National $178,260 (Dentists, General)
Job Outlook (2018-28) 7%
Annual Mean Salary (2019) – Arizona $192,570 (Dentists, General)

Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics

Dentists are an essential part of the medical field. A lot of hard work and passion is required in this field to achieve success. Dentistry is a profession that has enjoyed consistent demand over the years. Professionals working in this field enjoy a fruitful salary package and high job security.

Career Outlook

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, dentists are projected to experience a growth of 7% from 2018-2028. The demand for dental services is expected to increase in the coming years since more people will be needing dental work. Procedures like dental implants and bridges are also expected to become common. The demand for dentists will continue to increase as researches link dental health with overall health.

Steps to Become a Dentist in Arizona

    1. Get a Bachelor’s degree

Aspiring dentists are required to have a bachelor’s degree. Students can get a degree in any major since dental schools do not have any specific requirement. A few mandatory courses include physics, biology and chemistry.

 

    1. Take the Dental Admissions Test (DAT)

Passing DAT is mandatory to get into a dental program. It evaluates the student’s academic capabilities. DAT scores, a letter of recommendation and a good CGPA are required by all dental schools.

 

    1. Get a Dental Degree

Students have to enroll in a 4-year dental program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). This program is a combination of theoretical and practical knowledge. During the initial 2 years, students focus on learning in laboratory and classrooms. They study courses like pathology and orthodontics, etc. In the last 2 years they, they get a chance to diagnose and treat patients. After completing the program, students obtain a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS).

 

    1. Obtain Licensure

To obtain a license in Arizona, candidates are required to have a dental degree from a recognized school. Candidates need to pass the National Dental Board Examination and the Arizona Jurisprudence examination. They are also required to clear the Western Regional Examination Board’s exam or a clinical exam which is organized by another testing agency or state in the US. Candidates obtain their licensure from the Arizona Board of Dental Examiners once they have completed all the requirements.

 

    1. Consider Specialization

Dentists who want to specialize in any field opt for a post-DMD or a post-DDS degree. There are multiple specialization options recognized by the CODA like, public health and orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics. Becoming a specialist requires 1-2 years of additional training and education.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Dentist in Arizona?

Aspiring dentists have to finish a 4-year bachelor’s degree followed by a 4-year graduate program at a recognized dental school. Candidates become eligible to get a license once all the educational and training requirements are fulfilled.

What Are the Requirements for Becoming a Dentist in Arizona?

Following are the requirements to become a dentist in Arizona:

  • Be of good moral character
  • Obtain an undergraduate degree
  • Take the DAT and get a recognized dental degree
  • Pass the National Board Dental Examination and Arizona Jurisprudence Examination
  • Pass the Western Regional Examination Board’s exam

 

How Much Can I Make after Becoming a Dentist in Arizona?

As per the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual mean salary of dentists working in Arizona was $192,570 in 2019.

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