Dentists perform tooth replacements, root canals and extractions. They diagnose and treat any oral disease or infection. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 300 general dentists employed in Wyoming in 2019.

Should I Become a Dentist in Wyoming?

If you want to make people’s smiles brighter and their oral health better, you ought to invest in a career in dentistry.

Find out more about this career in the table below.

Education Required Professional or a doctoral degree
Major Requirement Dentistry
Training Required for specialization
Licenses/Certifications Required
Key Skills Problem Solving Skills, Leadership Skills, Dexterity, Organization Skills, Communication Skills and Patience.
Annual Mean Salary (2019) – National $178,260
Job Outlook (2018-28) 7%
Annual Mean Salary (2019) – Wyoming $127,990

Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics

Dentistry is a profession which is constantly flourishing. It is one of the most sought after professions from the field of medicine. Even though the career sounds appealing, it requires people who are passionate about oral health. It is a demanding career and requires a lot of hard work to achieve success.

Career Outlook

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, dentists are expected to witness a growth of 7% from 2018-2028. The demand for the profession is expected to increase along with the population. In recent times, people have become more concerned about their oral health which leads them to go to dentists. It is also expected that the demand for complicated dental processes will increase in the coming years. Along with all other skills, these professionals are required to be good problem solvers and communicators.

Steps to Become a Dentist in Wyoming

    1. Get an Undergraduate Degree

 

Aspiring dentists have to get an undergraduate degree as a first step to become a doctor. Dental schools do not require any specific major so students can choose any field. However, they are required to complete coursework in physics, chemistry and biology.

 

    1. Take the Dental Admissions Test (DAT)

 

Students have to take the DAT to get enrolled in a dental college. The mandatory test assesses the students’ academic capability and scientific knowledge. A good CGPA, letters of recommendation and DAT scores are required by dental schools.

 

    1. Get a Dental Degree

 

Students who get enrolled in a dental program have to complete a 4-year program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). The first two years of the program allow students to gain theoretical knowledge in laboratory and classrooms. While in the last two years they are allowed to work with patients and diagnose diseases, in a supervised setting. After completing the program, students receive the Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree.

 

    1. Obtain Licensure

 

Each state has different requirements to obtain licensure. In Wyoming, all applicants have to be graduates of a CODA accredited program. They have to pass part 1 and part 2 of the National Board of Dental Examinations organized by American Dental Association’s (ADA) joint commission on national dental examination. Applicants are also required to pass the Regional Examination and Wyoming Jurisprudence Examination which consists of the Wyoming Dental Practice Act and Board Rules and Regulations. Once they’ve cleared the exams, they can obtain their license from the Wyoming Board of Dental Examiners.

 

    1. Consider Specialization

 

Even though it is not mandatory, some dentists consider specializing in different fields of dentistry. They have to obtain the post-DDS or post-DMD degree in any specialty area offered by the CODA. The process requires additional training and education which lasts for 1-2 years.

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

Aspiring dentists are required to finish a 4-year bachelor’s program followed by a 4-year graduate program at an accredited medical school. They can apply for licensure once the education requirement is fulfilled.

What Are the Requirements for Becoming a Dentist in Wyoming?

Following are the requirements to become a dentist in Wyoming:

  • Earn an undergraduate degree
  • Take DAT and get admission in an accredited dental college
  • Earn a dental degree
  • Pass part 1 and 2 of the National Board of Dental Examinations
  • Pass the Wyoming Jurisprudence Examination and Regional Examination

 

How Much Can I Make After Becoming a Dentist in Wyoming?

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual mean salary of dentists working in Wyoming was $127,990 in 2019.