How to Become a Dental Hygienist in Illinois

The day-to-day job of dentists involves performing different procedures related to the treatment of gums and teeth. These include root canals, cavity fillings, extractions and tooth replacements, etc. Taking X-rays of the mouth and giving oral care/hygiene advice are some of their other responsibilities.

According to the latest data made available by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Illinois has nearly 4,000 general dentists. If you have aspirations of joining their ranks, then this guide will walk you through the process of becoming a dentist in The Prairie State.

Sources: O*Net Online and US Bureau of Labor Statistics

Dentists are either general practitioners or specialists in a particular branch of dentistry. Becoming a specialist requires extra education and training (2 to 4 years) apart from the dental degree. As for work routines, long shifts and weekends on the job are common for most dentists.

From 2018 to 2028, a 7% increase in job opportunities for dentists has been predicted by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is more than the growth that many other professions are likely to witness. Also, as the population ages, the demand for basic and advanced dental care will increase.

The process outlined in this section will help you become a dentist in Illinois.

1. 1. Undergraduate Studies

To become a dentist, you need to first get a Bachelor’s degree. Any area of specialization is acceptable but you should ideally take at least some courses in science-related fields like biology, physics, psychology and chemistry, etc. Some dental schools also enroll students after 2 or 3 years of Bachelor’s education. They get their undergrad degree as part of the dental studies program.

 

2. 2. Qualify the DAT (Dental Admission Test)

Following graduation, the next step is to take the Dental Admission Test (DAT). You must do really well on this exam because your entry to dental school depends on it.

 

3. 3. Enter Dental School

 

Your time in dental school (4 years) will be geared towards the attainment of either a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree. Make sure you choose a school with programs endorsed by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) which functions under the umbrella of the American Dental Association (ADA).

 

4. 4. Get Licensed

 

Once you graduate from dental school, you need to get licensed by the Illinois Board of Dentistry. To be eligible for a license, you must clear the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE). Passing a state-approved clinical exam, such as the ADEX (American Dental Examination), is also among the eligibility requirements.

 

5. 5. Pick an Area of Specialty (Optional)

 

If you choose to work in an area of specialty and not in general dentistry, then you will need additional education and training (2 to 4 years) in one of the following areas.

 

The usual time frame is 8 years (4 years of Bachelor’s studies and 4 years of dental studies). Afterwards, if you choose to become a specialist as opposed to practicing general dentistry, then that demands another few years of education and training (potential residency program).