How to Become a Dentist in Virginia: Your Complete, Compassionate Guide

That dream of white coats, helping people smile with confidence, and building a career that truly makes a difference—sound familiar? If you’ve ever asked yourself, “How do I actually become a dentist in Virginia?” you’re not alone. This journey can look scary at first. Where do you start? How much does it cost? What’s the path from high school science class to holding your own dental license?

Take a deep breath. You’re in exactly the right place. We’ll break down everything you need to know, one step at a time—from your first thought about dentistry, all through the tough classes and tests, and finally, into your own practice here in Virginia.

Before we start, know this: Wanting to be a dentist makes sense. It’s a job that mixes science, problem-solving, and, yes, a good chance at a steady job with the real joy of helping people. Let’s get started and make something tricky feel easy to understand.

In This Article

• Introduction: The Dentist’s Path in Virginia
• Building Your Foundation: High School & Undergrad
• Excelling on the Dental Admission Test (DAT)
• Dental School Admissions in Virginia
• Earning Your DDS or DMD Degree
• Passing National and Regional Exams
• Getting Your Virginia Dental License
• Career Outlook and Opportunities
• Key Takeaways & Next Steps
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Introduction: The Dentist’s Path in Virginia

If you’re thinking about becoming a dentist here in Virginia, you’re starting a path to a job that’s both respected and rewarding. But where do you begin, and why is this guide different from all the rest?

Most guides just throw facts at you. We’re here to guide you through every step. We’ll go over the whole trip—from your first high school chemistry class, to job choices and pay, all about Virginia.

Imagine walking a well-lit trail, surrounded by signposts—no guesswork, just clear, simple steps. We’ll be that trusted helper as you make your next big choice about your future.

Building Your Foundation: High School and Undergraduate Steps

The Question

“I’m still in high school—or maybe just starting college. Am I already too late? How can I set myself up for success if I want to be a dentist?”

The Simple Truth

Think of becoming a dentist like building a strong house. Your base starts in high school, where you need strong walls of science and math. You’ll add more layers in college: biology, chemistry, physics, English, and more. Skipping a step now can make it much harder later.

High School Prep:

• Take plenty of science classes—biology, chemistry, and physics are must-haves.
• Get as much math as you can (Algebra, Geometry, Calculus if you can).
• English matters too; you’ll be doing a lot of writing.

Extra Boost:

• Volunteer at local clinics or visit a dentist at work. Not only does this look good on your application, it helps you see if this is the right job for you.
• Join pre-dental or science clubs, or even start one if your school doesn’t have one.

Moving Into College:

You don’t have to pick “Pre-Dentistry” as your major. Most dental school applicants choose:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Biochemistry
• Or even Psychology (as long as you cover science classes you need)

The Must-Do List: Pre-Dental Classes

• General Biology: 2 semesters with labs
• General Chemistry: 2 semesters with labs
• Organic Chemistry: 2 semesters with labs
• Physics: 2 semesters
• Biochemistry (more and more schools want this)
• English: 2 semesters
• Math: At least Statistics, maybe Calculus

Keep your grades high—most people who get into Virginia’s dental schools have a GPA of 3.5 or better (overall and in science).

Quick Reality Check:

• Is there wiggle room?

Some dental schools—like VCU—like strong science backgrounds but also want students who are well-rounded. Good grades count, but service, leadership, and people skills are good too.

Helpful Hint:

• Don’t wait until your third year to start shadowing a dentist. The sooner you start, the better off you’ll be when it’s time to apply.

Excelling on the Dental Admission Test (DAT)

The Question

“What is the DAT? How do I get a high enough score for dental school in Virginia?”

The Why and How

Think of the DAT like the “SAT of dentistry.” It checks your science knowledge and how you think under pressure. It’s not just a quiz—it’s a test of focus, stress handling, and quick thinking (kind of like real dentist work!).

Key Facts:

• You take it after most of your college science classes
• Covers: Biology, Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Perceptual Ability, Reading, Math
• Scored 1–30 (most accepted in Virginia score around 20–22 or more)
• Sign up and get ready months in advance

Top Tips:

• Start getting ready in your third year of college.
• Use practice exams, prep books, and (if you can) join a group to study together.
• Take full-length practice tests; learning to handle the time is everything.

Pro-Tip:

Plan to take the DAT before you apply to dental school (usually spring of third year), so you can take it again if you need to.

Is It Hard?

The DAT is hard, but you can do it with effort and practice. If science is a weak point for you, spend more time on those classes before you take the test.

Dental School Admissions in Virginia

The Question

“What’s it really like to apply to dental school—especially here in Virginia?”

The Explanation

Virginia has one main dental school: Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) School of Dentistry. It’s tough to get in and it’s approved by the people in charge of dental schools (CODA).

The Application Process:

• College grades
• DAT scores
• Personal story (why this job matters to you)
• Letters from professors (science teachers are best)
• Proof you shadowed a dentist, volunteered, or were a leader

• Applications open: early June each year
• Apply early—seats fill quickly!
• Get ready for more questions from each school

• If you make the first cut, VCU will ask you in to talk. This is your time to shine—be ready to speak about hard things you’ve overcome, why you want to be a dentist (talk about Virginia, not just “I want to help people”), and your real-life work experience.

• It’s hard: VCU takes about 95–100 students per class, out of hundreds who try.
• Want to stand out? Show you care about service and patient care.

Big Point

Dental schools want to see you’re not just good at grades—you’re reliable, caring, and will take care of your future patients.

Earning Your DDS or DMD Degree

The Question

“What’s dental school really like, and how do I pay for all of it?”

The Simple Truth

Dental school is a four-year journey of science, hands-on skills, and patient care. Here’s what it’s like:

The Classes (4 Years):

• Years 1–2:
• Science classes (anatomy, how the body works, how chemicals work in the body)
• Use of dental tools and materials in labs
• Practice on models (not people—yet)
• Years 3–4:
• Real care for patients at the teaching clinic
• Working in different areas (kids, surgery, and more)
• Helping out in the community

Degrees Explained

• DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) and DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine):
• They mean the same thing, just different names.
• VCU gives the DDS.

Money Side

Let’s talk about money:

• VCU In-State Tuition: $47,000–$52,000 a year (not counting food or a place to live)
• Out-of-State Tuition: $82,000–$87,000 a year

How Do You Pay?

• Apply for loans (use the FAFSA).
• Look for scholarships (check local, state, and national dental groups like the Virginia Dental Association).
• Some students get jobs as dental assistants or in work-study.

The Promise

Yes, it’s a lot—money and work. But the average dentist in Virginia makes about $192,720 each year, so it’s a good investment in your future.

Pro-tip: Watch your costs now so you don’t get surprised later. Check out guides like the dental practical guide for details.

Passing National and Regional Licensing Exams

The Question

“After finishing dental school, how do I actually get my license in Virginia? More tests?”

The Answer

You’re almost there. But before you can treat real patients, you have to show you know your stuff.

The Two Big Tests:

• Checks what you know about patient care and dental science
• You have to pass to finish dental school

• Virginia uses CDCA/ADEX
• You’ll work on real patients or on fake teeth to show you know how to do dental work

• Makes sure you know Virginia laws and rules for dentists

These tests are tough, but your dental school will help you get ready. They’re there to keep patients safe—and you, too.

Getting Your Virginia Dental License

The Question

“How do I finally get my license to work as a dentist in Virginia?”

Step-by-Step

• Be ready for a background check and fingerprinting.
• Pay the needed fees (check the Board’s website to make sure).

Keeping Your License Up

• Virginia wants dentists to keep learning—usually 15 hours of classes each year to keep your license good.

Career Outlook and Opportunities for Dentists in Virginia

The Question

“What happens once I have my license to be a dentist in Virginia?”

The Facts

Dentistry in Virginia is a job with steady work, good pay, and lots of paths to pick from.

Average Pay

• $192,720 (average yearly pay) for Virginia dentists.
• Specialists (like braces doctors or oral surgeons) can make even more.

Job Openings

• Over 4,000 dentists work in Virginia.
• Jobs are expected to grow (4% nationwide from 2022–2032).
• As people get older, more dental care is needed.

Types of Jobs

• Private Practice: Be your own boss or join a group
• Community Clinics: Help people who need care
• Hospitals & Teaching: For those who want to teach or work with many doctors
• Military Dentistry: Give dental care on bases or while traveling

Specialties

Want to fix crooked teeth or put in implants? Try specialties like braces, surgery, or kids’ dentistry. Each needs extra school and tests, but pays off in new skills.

Career Growth Help

• The Virginia Dental Association helps with mentors, legal questions, connecting with others, and finding jobs.
• Some clinics in Virginia use digital dental labs or a crown and bridge lab to get the latest dental tech.

Key Takeaways & Next Steps

Let’s turn all that into a simple plan.

The Step-by-Step Path:

• Get good at science in high school and college.
• Shadow a dentist, volunteer, and show you care about helping.
• Study hard for the DAT—it’s a big step.
• Apply to dental school early, make your application shine, and do well at the interview.
• Finish four years of tough school work and patient practice.
• Pass the board, the hands-on, and Virginia’s law test.
• Fill out your license papers, pay your fees, get your background check!
• Keep your license up to date by learning new things each year.
• Think about your future: general dentist or a specialist? Own your office or work in a clinic?

Your To-Do List

• Keep organized with a checklist or spreadsheet for all your steps and deadlines.
• Ask for help when you need it—professors, local dentists, or the Virginia Dental Association are there for you.
• If you hit a setback, remember—many dentists didn’t make it the first time they tried.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take to become a dentist in Virginia?

Usually 8 years: 4 years of college, plus 4 years of dental school. If you specialize, add more time.

What does it cost?

Plan for about $47,000–$52,000 each year if you live in Virginia while at VCU. Add more for living costs, books, and application payments.

Can someone move from another country and be a dentist in Virginia?

Yes, but you must finish a CODA-approved course in the U.S. and complete all Virginia license steps. Check with the Virginia Board of Dentistry for details.

DDS vs. DMD—does it matter?

They’re the same! The title is just different. Both mean you’re a dentist in Virginia.

What if I’ve been a dental assistant, hygienist, or tech—can I be a dentist?

Yes— that experience is helpful. Just make sure to take all the classes and tests needed.

The Bottom Line: You Can Do This

Dentistry in Virginia isn’t just a job—it’s a calling, a challenge, and can make you proud. Every dentist starts somewhere: maybe a small town high school, maybe the city. If you want to help, learn, and succeed, keep moving ahead, one step at a time.

Remember: The path might be long, but it’s clear, and thousands have done it before. Start today, and soon, you’ll be the one making people smile.

Ready to learn more about dental jobs or helping patients? Check out our resources at dental practical guide or see what it’s like to be a dentist.

Sources: Virginia Board of Dentistry, American Dental Association (ADA), VCU School of Dentistry, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Checked by local dental experts.