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

Becoming a dentist is a rewarding career choice for those who are passionate about helping others and maintaining oral health. However, it’s not a short or easy path—it requires years of education, training, and dedication. For those considering pursuing dentistry specifically in Louisiana, it’s crucial to understand the timeline, requirements, and steps involved to achieve this goal.

High School Preparation (4 Years)

The road to becoming a dentist begins as early as high school. Aspiring dentists should focus on science and math courses like biology, chemistry, physics, and advanced mathematics. Taking Advanced Placement (AP) courses can offer a solid foundation and prepare students for the rigor of college-level coursework. Additionally, participating in extracurricular activities, especially those related to science, healthcare, or community service, can strengthen college applications and showcase an interest in dentistry.

Undergraduate Education (4 Years)

After high school, the first formal step is earning a bachelor’s degree, which typically takes four years. While dental schools don’t require a specific major, most students choose to study biology, chemistry, or another science-related field. This helps meet the prerequisite coursework needed for dental school applications. Required courses often include:

• General Biology with lab
• General Chemistry with lab
• Organic Chemistry with lab
• Physics
• Anatomy and Physiology
• Biochemistry

Gaining practical experience during college is also crucial. Many students shadow practicing dentists, volunteer in dental clinics, or join pre-dental student organizations. Building a competitive GPA (3.5 or higher) and achieving strong results on the Dental Admission Test (DAT)—which assesses academic ability and scientific knowledge—are essential for admission to dental school.

The DAT is typically taken during a student’s junior or senior year of undergraduate studies. Scoring well on this standardized test requires substantial preparation, as it is a key factor dental schools use to evaluate applicants.

Dental School (4 Years)

After completing an undergraduate degree and gaining admission to a dental school, students spend the next four years immersed in the world of dentistry. Louisiana has one accredited dental school, the LSU Health New Orleans School of Dentistry, which is a highly competitive institution. Like most dental schools, LSUSD offers a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree, though some programs confer a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD). It’s important to note that both degrees are equivalent in terms of training and practice.

During the first two years of dental school, students focus on foundational sciences, such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and pharmacology, as well as preclinical training. They learn about dental tools, techniques, and procedures in a controlled setting. The final two years are dedicated to clinical rotations, where students work under the supervision of licensed dentists to treat real patients.

Throughout dental school, students must pass multiple exams, including the National Board Dental Examinations (NBDE) or its newer replacement, the Integrated National Board Dental Examination (INBDE). These exams assess comprehensive dental knowledge and clinical competency.

Licensure and Exams (Several Months)

Graduating from dental school is a major milestone, but aspiring dentists must also obtain licensure to practice in Louisiana or any other state. This involves passing a regional clinical exam. Louisiana is part of the Central Regional Dental Testing Service (CRDTS), and candidates must complete hands-on work to demonstrate their clinical skills.

Additionally, Louisiana applicants must pass the Louisiana State Board of Dentistry Jurisprudence Examination, which tests knowledge of the state’s specific laws and regulations. Once these tests are successfully completed, individuals can apply for licensure and begin practicing as dentists.

Optional Specialization (2–6 Additional Years)

Some dentists choose to continue their education and specialize in areas like orthodontics, oral surgery, periodontics, or pediatric dentistry. Specializations require enrollment in a residency program, which can take anywhere from 2 to 6 additional years, depending on the discipline. For example, becoming an orthodontist typically takes about three years of residency training after dental school.

The Total Timeline

For most aspiring dentists in Louisiana, the entire process from high school to becoming a licensed dentist takes approximately 8 years of higher education—4 years for a bachelor’s degree and 4 years in dental school. Add a few additional months for licensure exams and paperwork. If specializing, the timeline extends to 10–14 years. While the process is lengthy and demanding, the end result is a fulfilling and respected career.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a dentist is a significant time investment, but it leads to a stable career with excellent growth potential and the chance to make a meaningful impact on patients’ lives. Louisiana, with its unique healthcare needs and diverse communities, offers a rewarding environment for dental professionals. Whether you’re just beginning to consider this path or actively working toward it, knowing the steps and commitment involved can help you plan for success. With dedication, persistence, and a passion for oral health, achieving your goals as a dentist in Louisiana is within reach.