How to Build Real Relationships That Lead to Amazing Dental School Recommendation Letters

Let’s get real: those dental school recommendation letters aren’t going to write themselves. And snagging a great letter isn’t about sending a last-minute email to a professor who barely knows your name. It’s about building genuine connections with people who can speak to your potential as a future dentist.

Here’s my no-nonsense guide to cultivating those relationships that lead to recommendation letters worth their weight in gold (or amalgam, if you prefer).

Table of Contents

Make Your Professors Actually Remember You

Show Up (In More Ways Than One)

Pick a seat near the front of the class where your professor can actually see your face. Trust me, it’s much harder to ignore “front row Sara” than “guy who sits in the back corner and stares at his phone.”

After the first class, take 30 seconds to introduce yourself. Nothing dramatic—just a quick “Hi Dr. Lee, I’m Jordan. I’m really looking forward to your microbiology course since I’m hoping to apply to dental school next year.” Boom. You’re no longer just a name on the roster.

Office Hours: Your Secret Weapon

Let me let you in on a little secret: professors schedule office hours because they have to, but many spend that time staring at an empty doorway while grading papers. Be the student who actually shows up.

Don’t wait until you’re failing to visit. Go early in the semester with thoughtful questions that show you’re engaged. “I was fascinated by your lecture on enamel formation. How does fluoride actually integrate into that crystalline structure?” sounds a lot better than “Will this be on the test?”

Speak Up (But Don’t Be That Person)

We all know that student who raises their hand for everything and makes the whole class groan. Don’t be that person. Instead, come to class prepared with one solid question or comment. Quality over quantity wins every time.

Try building on what others have said: “I appreciated Sarah’s point about preventive care, and I’m wondering how that applies to underserved communities specifically.” This shows you’re not just waiting for your turn to talk—you’re actually listening and thinking.

Beyond the Classroom: Level Up Your Connections

Want to really stand out? Research opportunities and special projects are where true mentorships form.

Before approaching a professor about research, do your homework. Check out their recent publications and come prepared with specific interests: “Dr. Williams, your work on biofilm formation is fascinating. I’d love to help with any projects in that area, even if it’s just basic lab prep work to start.”

Even if they don’t have openings, they’ll remember your initiative and specific interest in their work.

The “Make My Life Easy” Packet for Recommenders

When it’s finally time to ask for that letter, make it ridiculously easy for your recommender to write something spectacular.

Create a simple, organized folder (digital or physical) that includes:

• Your Story: A one-page narrative about why dentistry, memorable moments with this professor, and your goals
• Your Stats: Unofficial transcript with relevant courses highlighted
• Your Experience: Brief summary of dental shadowing, volunteer work, and leadership roles
• The Logistics: Clear deadline information and exactly how they should submit the letter

Remember, your goal is to make writing your letter the easiest task on their to-do list that day.

When Things Get Awkward: Handling Tough Situations

If They Say No

If someone declines to write your letter, don’t burn that bridge! Thank them for their honesty (a “no” is better than a lukewarm letter) and ask if they can suggest ways you could strengthen your candidacy in the future.

Crickets After Your Request

If you’ve sent an email and heard nothing back after a week, send one (ONE) polite follow-up. If another week passes, try catching them after class or during office hours with a quick, “I was wondering if you had a chance to consider my recommendation letter request?”

The Procrastinating Professor

For the recommendation writer who’s cutting it close to the deadline, send a gentle reminder two weeks before D-day: “Just wanted to check in about the recommendation letter due on March 15th. Let me know if you need anything else from me to make the process easier!”

Keeping It Real After the Letter

Your relationship shouldn’t end once you get what you need. Send a genuine thank-you note after they submit your letter. Not a text, not an email—an actual note that shows you put in effort just like they did.

Keep them updated on your journey: “Just wanted to let you know I got an interview at UCLA! Your biochemistry course really prepared me for the academic questions they asked.”

These connections can last throughout your career, so nurture them. Your recommenders might become mentors, research collaborators, or professional colleagues down the road.

Quick Template Examples

Thank You Note

Dear Dr. Anderson,

That recommendation letter? It meant the world. Your organic chemistry course completely changed how I think about dental materials, and our conversations during office hours helped clarify my career path in ways I didn't expect. I'll keep you posted on where this dental school journey takes me!

Gratefully,
Jordan

Update Email

Hi Dr. Martinez,

Quick update—I got interview invites from three schools, including UCLA! When they asked about research experience, I talked about the techniques I learned in your lab, and the interviewer was genuinely impressed. Thanks again for your support through this process.

Best,
Taylor

Bottom Line

Building relationships for recommendation letters isn’t about gaming the system—it’s about being genuinely engaged, respectful of people’s time, and passionate about your future profession. Start early, be authentic, and these connections will not only get you great letters but will support you throughout your dental career.

Now go make yourself unforgettable (in a good way)!

Got questions about building relationships with potential recommenders? Drop them in the comments below!