Dentistry is concerned with diseases, disorders, and conditions of the oral cavity, commonly in the dentition but also the adjacent and related structures and tissues in the jaw and facial area. Dental treatments are carried out by a dental team, which often consists of a dentist and dental auxiliaries. Most dentists either work in private practices, dental hospitals, or institutions.
Dentistry tends to be less competitive than other professional schools because the surplus of dentists produced in the 40s, 50s, and 60s are now retiring. It is still relatively easy to gain admission to dental school, and a young person can join an established practice and make a good living as a dentist. Many students gain admission after three years in undergraduate school. The duration of dental school is approximately four years, but no internship is required. West Virginia University has the only school of dentistry in the state.
Dental Admission Test (DAT) usually taken in the spring of your junior year for 4-year student. For the most current information, review the DAT web site.
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