Many kids dream of their future careers. Some want to be astronauts, others scientists, and a handful might want to become firefighters. And perhaps, your child might dream of becoming a dentist one day.
Like most healthcare occupations, treading the path of a dentist takes years of preparation. So, if your little one is determined about their dream dentistry career, your responsibility as their parent is to support them. But how exactly do you clear the road for them?
This guide outlines steps to begin your child’s journey to dentistry. Ready to jumpstart their potential future? Keep reading!
1. Help Them Prepare Academically
A shot at dental school begins with excellent grades. So, advise your child to focus on core subjects like science, math, and English, but don’t let them ignore their other classes either. The admissions committee will look at your child’s performance in these subjects to see if they have a future in dental care. Stellar grades will also give your kid better chances at landing fulfilling dental internships as a pre-dentistry undergraduate.
Absorbing all that knowledge can also be fun. So, encourage your child to join school clubs or organizations related to science, health, or community service. They could also join science fairs and math competitions to develop their critical thinking skills.
Volunteering at local dental clinics or hospitals can also provide priceless hands-on experience and exposure to the dental field. Meanwhile, participating in leadership roles can help your child boost skills like communication, teamwork, and time management.
2. Nurture Early Interest
As soon as your child shows some interest in becoming a dentist, encourage them to ask questions during their dental appointments. You could also watch kid-friendly dental-themed shows or films together to learn more about the practice.
Explore dental-related crafts or experiments, too. STEM activities related to dentistry—such as building models of teeth or learning about the science behind dental materials—can add further knowledge and interest.
But part of nurturing their interest is teaching your child basic dental hygiene tasks, such as brushing their teeth, gargling with mouthwash, or flossing. They should understand its importance as early as possible, not only to build a foundation for correct dental care but also to promote positive oral health.
3. Encourage Shadowing and Mentorship
Do you think shadowing is only for pre-med or pre-dental school students? Kids can shadow, too! So, consider connecting with local dentists and ask if your child can observe their daily routines. This way, they can be exposed to the different aspects of dental practice, such as procedures and patient interactions. This experience would be a great summer holiday activity for your child and help them determine if becoming a dentist is the right career path for them.
A strong relationship with a mentor also provides valuable guidance and support for your future young dentist. By the time your child gets older, they can discuss career paths, educational requirements, and potential challenges.
4. Explore Dental Schools
When choosing a dental school, consider factors like location, cost, and reputation. Look for dental schools in your area or region, but feel free to check international options as well. Doing this allows you to compare their admission requirements, what they teach, and their facilities and see if the school is the right fit for your kid.
Your child should also meet with representatives from different dental schools to make informed choices for their future. Learn about how to apply, financial aid options, and the other areas of dentistry they specialize in.
5. Prepare for the Application Process
Getting ready for the Dental Admission Test (DAT) is important early on. So, have your child practice sample questions and time management strategies. If necessary, provide resources and face-to-face or online tutoring to ensure they are well-prepared.
You can ask teachers, mentors, or dentists who know your child well to write letters of recommendation, too. These letters can highlight their academic achievements, character, and potential.
Lastly, a strong personal statement can help your child stand out. So, guide them in writing one that emphasizes their passion for dentistry, their goals for the future, and any relevant experiences or qualities. After that, carefully proofread and edit the statement to ensure it is well-written and error-free.
6. Map Out Dental School Costs
Pursuing a dental degree is a costly undertaking. So, to help cover the cost of dental school, research scholarships, grants, and student loans. Create a budget as early as now to estimate expenses. Your child could also consider part-time jobs or work-study programs while studying for additional financial support.
A thriving dental career offers long-term financial benefits, though. So, when your child is old enough, talk about the earning potential and job satisfaction. This information places you and your child on the same page concerning the financial aspects of their dental education.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a dentist is a tough road for your child to take, but it leads to plenty of worthwhile opportunities, especially if they love helping people. As a parent, you can go the extra mile for them. Before they’ll receive support from teachers and like-minded colleagues, they’ll look to you for guidance.
Stay motivated as they are, and be open to new possibilities! With dedication and hard work, your child can achieve their dream of becoming a successful dentist.