Pre Dentistry at Loras

Students who are interested in dentistry should take the list of required courses for medical school as described on that webpage.  Microbiology is required.  Most Loras students apply to and get into the University of Iowa Dental School.  Minimum GPA of 3.4 is needed. 

Critical Factors for Admission:

• Students are encouraged to shadow 3-4 dentists, males and females, who are in different kinds of practices like general, pediatric, orthodontic, periodontic, and oral surgery.  Paid assistantships have been received by some former students who have worked in a dental office with the dentist.
• Students are encouraged to take 3-4 basic business courses at Loras to learn basic accounting, management and marketing principles.  Some background in a foreign language is a good idea as well.
• Students need to show some evidence/experience in their application to be able to work well with their hands.  They need to realize that each tooth is like a small little woodworking project or sculpture.  Attention to detail and finishing each project is an important quality. 
• The Dental Admissions Test should be taken by applicants during the summer or fall of the year before they apply.  It is available on computer on almost any day of the year at a Sylvan Learning Center test site in Iowa City, Davenport, Madison or Des Moines.  DAT practice exam and instruction booklets are available and most info can be obtained on line at www.ada.org  or at www.adea.org.

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Email Dr. Davis with your questions