This summer Dr.Bomstad’s daughter has spent time working in the office as a sterilization tech. She has been contemplating a career in dentistry,
and this job has allowed her to see all facets of the office. Have you ever wondered what it takes to work in the dental field?
To become a licensed dental assistant you must attend dental assisting school. Most programs are 12-18 months long. There are 15 dental assisting schools in Minnesota. A minimum GPA must be maintained and dental clinical observation hours must be completed. Once a student has completed dental assisting school, they have to pass 3 different examinations before being licensed. Onced licensed, a dental assistant may perform patient procedures; like taking x-rays or placing temporary crowns or dental sealants.
There are 10 different dental hygiene programs in Minnesota. College classes in English and science are prerequisites for hygiene school, a competive GPA over a 3.0 is needed to get accepted. Some schools require job shadowing as well. A National Board Exam and clinical exam must be passed before becoming a licensed dental hygienist. Once licensed, dental hygienists may clean teeth, take x-rays, give injections and nitrous oxide.
Minnesota has only 1 dental school, but it is one of the most respected dental schools in the country. The University of Minnesota requires many college math and science classes to be taken before acceptance into dental school. A high GPA is reqired for admitance to dental school, along with an outstanding DAT (Dental Admission Test) score and 50 hours of job shadowing in a clinical setting. After 4 years of dental school, dentists must also pass multiple examinations with the Board of Dentistry.
As you can see, our staff has worked hard to achieve their careers. It definitely takes a special person who has a strong work ethic and a drive to help others to work in the dental field! We wish Dr. B’s daughter all the best as she figures out her own path in life.