How Long Does It Take to Become a Certified Specialist or Dentist?

Graduating from high school is just the beginning of the journey to becoming a dentist. It takes a total of 8 years to become a certified specialist or dentist, with 4 years of college education and 4 years of dental school. Depending on whether you choose to specialize in your dental studies, the amount of time spent in school can vary. For those who want to specialize, such as becoming an oral surgeon or periodontist, additional training and research is required. However, students who don't want to specialize can reduce the amount of time they spend in school by enrolling in a blended study program.