A dental radiologist evaluates dental images.
Dental radiologists evaluate images related to the teeth and jaw to diagnose problems, advise treatment and teach dental students. Dental radiologists can help to interpret images taken by dentists and dental assistants during examinations. They are involved in many aspects of dentistry including implants, orthodontics, and other oral problems. They can have their own private offices, but more commonly work at a research facility, hospital or dental school.
Instructions
1. Earn a bachelor's college degree -- some dental schools require several years of undergraduate work. Although some do not require a full degree, many do. Take classes that are generally considered pre-dental such as chemistry, biology and calculus. If you are interested in one or more particular dental schools, then ascertain the exact class requirements.
2. Gain admission into dental school. You will need to score well on the Dental Admission Test, attain good grades (generally a 3.5 G.P.A.) in your undergraduate classes, and complete the interview and application process. Only one-third of dental applicants are accepted.
3. Obtain a Doctor of Dental Surgery or a Doctor of Dental Medicine Degree, which are considered similar or even the same degree. Typically, dental school takes four years to complete, and includes both class work and training in a clinical setting. You must also pass the National Board Dental Examination Part I and II, and a licensing examination.
4. Complete a residency in radiology. This usually involves at least two to four additional years of education and training in areas including diagnostic image interpretation, radiation biology, safety in radiology and pathology. Programs often include clinical rotations to give students hands-on experience in dental radiology.
5. Pass the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology (ABOMR) exam. Spend the necessary time to study for this long and comprehensive test. You will then be awarded Diplomate status in the Board.
6. Complete all continuing dental education requirements. The exact courses required vary by state, but dentists are generally required to complete coursework to keep abreast of new advances and techniques in the dental field.
7. Secure a position as a dental radiologist. Dental radiologists commonly work in dental schools where they educate dental students and complete research. Others create radiology safety protocol, consult in dental cases, work in the radiology department of a hospital, or open up private practices.
Tags: Dental radiologists, dental school, dental schools, commonly work, dental students
