What to Expect After Dental School: A Guide for New Grads

Congratulations! You’ve spent years studying, perfecting your skills, and pulling all-nighters to get to this point. Now comes the exciting but sometimes overwhelming question: What now? 

If you’re wondering what life after dental school looks like, you’re not alone. This blog will break down what you can expect, how to navigate through the early stages of your career, and how to set yourself up for long-term success.

Before you can officially practice, you’ll need to pass your regional or state clinical board exams and apply for a license in the state in which you plan to practice. This process can vary depending on your location and whether you’re a hygienist, dentist, or dental assistant. It’s important to stay on top of deadlines, have all your paperwork ready to go, and reach out to your state dental board to learn about the specific requirements. 

If you also already know where you plan on working, you can start your licensing process early so there’s no delay in starting your dental career. 

After graduating from dental school, there’s no one-size-fits-all route you can take. There are many different types of dental practices you can choose to go into. Here are just a few options that you might consider: 

• Private Practice: Join an existing privately owned dental practice or own your own, usually less rigid than a DSO. 
• Dental Support/Service Organization (DSO): A good choice for those who choose stability and support early in their career. 
• Public Health or Community Clinics: This is ideal for those who are passionate about making an impact in their local community.
• Temping: This is a growing trend among new grads and seasoned professionals who want to explore different environments, earn extra money on the side, or work on their own terms.

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: student loans. We know that dental school can be expensive, and most graduates walk away with some type of debt. Here are a couple of tips on how to stay on top of it: 

• Look into income-driven repayment plans 
• Consider loan forgiveness programs for working in underserved areas
• Make a budget that includes your loan payments
• Try to make extra payments when possible to pay off your debt faster

Even after years of labs, clinic hours, and lectures, stepping into the real world and treating patients on your own is a major milestone. It’s completely normal to feel unsure at first. Seek out mentorship from experienced dental professionals who have been in your shoes. They can be an incredible resource. And remember, learning does not stop after graduation. Continuing education courses are a great way to sharpen your skills and build confidence. Most importantly, give yourself grace. You are still growing, and that is exactly how it should be.

Working in the dental field is very rewarding, but it can also be very mentally and physically taxing. Ensure that you’re setting your boundaries, making time for things you enjoy, and seeking support from your coworkers (they understand you). A healthy work-life balance will keep you energized and passionate about what you do. 

Life after dental school is full of possibilities. While it comes with new responsibilities, it also comes with the freedom to build a career that works for you. With a solid foundation, a supportive network, and a bit of time, you’ll find your place in the dental field. 

Here’s to your next chapter, we can’t wait to see the impact you’ll make!