Dentists (D.D.S., D.M.D.) diagnose and treat problems with a patient’s teeth, gums and related parts of the mouth. They provide advice and instruction on taking care of teeth and gums and on diet choices the affect oral health.
Dentists typically do the following:
- Remove decay from teeth and fill cavities
- Repair cracked or fractured teeth and remove teeth
- Place sealants or whitening agents on teeth
- Administer anesthetics to keep patients from feeling pain during procedures
- Prescribe antibiotics or other medications
- Examine x rays of teeth, gums, the jaw, and nearby areas in order to diagnose problems
- Make models and measurements for dental appliances, such as dentures, to fit patients
- Teach patients about diets, flossing, the use of fluoride, and other aspects of dental care
Application process for Dental programs vary by school. It is important for students to be aware of the specific process of the schools to which they may apply.
There are many factors that are evaluated throughout the application process.
- Academic Record
- The Standardized Test - The Dental Admission Test (DAT)
- Letters of Evaluation
- The Interview
- Extracurricular Activities and Work Experience
- The Application Service – Association of American Dental Schools Application Service (AADSAS)
Please visit the Center for Health Sciences and Student Success in the College of Sciences and Engineering at Wilkes University for more information on the application process.
The online ADEA AADSAS application becomes available around June 1 for the next entering class. For example, the AADSAS 2018 application cycle will begin in June 2017. Each dental school has its own AADSAS application deadlines, which range from September 1 to February 1. Consult with AADSAS application and individual dental school websites for current deadlines.
Pre-dental students are encouraged to apply early and to work with the Center for Health Sciences and Student Success in the College of Science and Engineering at Wilkes University in preparation of the application process.
Admission requirements to the dental schools vary by school. It is important for students to be aware of the specific requirements of the schools to which they may apply. The majority require a minimum of 8 semester hours (or 12 quarter hours) each of biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry and physics. Increasingly, some dental schools seek applicants who have completed additional upper-level courses such as biochemistry, microbiology and genetics. Many also require courses in English, mathematics and social sciences.