How to Become a Dental Hygienist in Colorado

Dentists help and treat patients who have any problems or illnesses related to the gums, mouth or teeth. Their job includes carrying out and studying mouth X-rays, advising patients on oral care and hygiene, performing root canals, tooth replacements, extractions and filling dental cavities, etc.

As of 2019, Colorado has 2,280 general dentists operating within its borders according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Would you like to join this hardworking community of care providers? Read this guide to learn about how to become a dentist in The Centennial State.

Sources: O*NET OnLine and US Bureau of Labor Statistics

As a licensed dentist in the state, you will either pick a specialty to work in or provide general dentistry services. The former requires extra education and training compared to the latter. Like any other type of medical practitioners, dentists are also no strangers to long work hours.

According to data gathered by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for dentists are likely to increase by about 7% from 2018 to 2028. This increase is more than that predicted for various other occupations. Also, with an increasing number of senior citizens, demand for basic and advanced dental services will increase.

Follow these steps to become a dentist in The Centennial State.

1. 1. Enroll in a Bachelor’s Degree Program

 

The first thing you must do is get a Bachelor’s degree. There is no compulsion with regards to area of specialization but you are advised to take a few science courses at least. Many dental schools also offer students the opportunity to join a dental program early (after 2 or 3 years of undergrad studies) and earn their Bachelor’s degree as part of the dental studies program.

 

2. 2. Sit for the Dental Admission Test

 

Once you have earned your undergraduate degree, it is time to sit for the DAT (Dental Admission Test). You must score as high as you can to enhance your chances of entry to dental school.

 

3. 3. Head to Dental School

 

Next up will be a 4-year stint in dental school which will culminate with you earning either a DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) or a DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine) degree. Be aware that you need to choose a school whose program has been accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). The commission works under the auspices of the American Dental Association (ADA).

 

4. 4. Get Your Practicing License

 

After getting your DDS or DMD degree, you have to forward your licensing application to the Colorado Dental Board. Passing the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) and a state-endorsed clinical test is a must for eligibility.

 

5. 5. Specialty (Optional)

 

If you decide to become a specialist rather than a general dentist, then you have the following options.

You will spend an additional 2 to 4 years studying and training (residency programs) in your chosen specialty.

The normal time taken to become a dentist in Colorado is 8 years. Out of these, the first 4 are spent earning a Bachelor’s degree while the next 4 are spent in dental school. If you decide to go for a specialty afterwards, then you will be spending another few years studying and training in your area of specialization.

You have to fulfill the criteria listed below to become a dentist in Colorado.

 

In 2019, Colorado’s dentists earned an annual mean wage of $169,070. This is according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.