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The first step in becoming a dentist is receiving a Bachelor's degree in a pre-dental subject. I would personally major in biology. In conjunction with this major, I would also be following a pre-dental pathway. These pathways generally include coursework from subjects such as biology, chemistry, and physics.

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I would then look for internships or related positions in the dental field. I may job-shadow actual dentists or volunteer at dental offices. The best scenario would be landing a position as a dental hygienist as this will provide the most hands-on learning.

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The Dental Admissions Test serves as standardized admission test for dental school. It can only be taken up to 3 times so being prepared is crucial. It is a 280 question test that takes around four and a half hours to complete. I will spend my free time when I am not gaining work experience taking prep-courses and studying to pass the DAT.

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Once I have passed the DAT I will begin applying to dental schools. The higher score I receive on the DAT the more likely I will be to get accepted, but I will still cast a wide net. I will apply to as many schools as possible and await their decisions. Once I know where I have been accepted, I will narrow down my options until I reach a final decision.

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A DDS program takes around 4 years to complete. It is rigorous and requires immense dedication. These programs cover large swaths of topics including dental anatomy, orthodontics, etc. I will study hard and complete my training on time.

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After graduating dental school I am one step closer to being licensed. I would then finish the next several steps. I would pass the Integrated National Board Dental Examination which assesses one's ability to perform dental problem solving. I would then complete a clinical assessment, finally completing the steps necessary to secure my license.

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Integrated National Board Dental Examination

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This is the first in a decently long line of permits for me to work my way through. I will apply for my General Anesthesia Permit through the state of Ohio which will cost me around $530 in general fees. This permit will allow me apply for the following two permits.

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8. Receive My Moderate Sedation Permit - Patients age 13 and over

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8. Receive My Moderate Sedation Permit - Patients age 13 and over

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After I receive my general anesthesia permit I will be able to apply for my Moderate Sedation Permit for Patients age 13 and over. This permit will, as you could guess, allow my to use anesthesia on patients of mine who are aged 13 or above. This permit will cost me around $530 in fees.

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9. Receive My Moderate Sedation Permit - Patients under 13 

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9. Receive My Moderate Sedation Permit - Patients under 13 

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In tandem with the previous permit, I will also apply for my Moderate Sedation Permit for Patients under 13. This permit would allow me to do exactly what you would think, administer anesthesia to patients under the age of 13. This permit will also run me about $530 in fees.

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Now that I have received all of my certifications and licenses/permits, I will find an existing dental practice that is hiring. With my certifications and and education, I should be a hot commodity in the dental hiring world. This will allow me to begin saving up money for my next step.

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Using the funds I earn over my time working as a dentist in someone else's practice, I will purchase some real estate. I will likely purchase a cheap standalone building, or rent a space in a conveniently located strip mall with good foot traffic. This will provide me with a space to complete my final step.

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Having purchased my own office space, I will apply for some business loans, purchase the equipment necessary, and open my own dental practice. I will hire a small crew of employees to handle menial jobs around the office. After some time, I will have a solid enough cliental base to live comfortably off of my own income. After years and years and years of hard work, I will have finally fulfilled my dream of running my own dental practice and becoming a successful dentist.