by Grace Crofts, YourPace Contributing Writer
Tim Wallace did not always plan to become a dentist.
In high school, he knew he wanted a career in health care but was unsure which direction to pursue. He considered nursing and medicine before shadowing a practicing dentist, an experience that changed his plans.
“I liked that it was hands-on,” said the dental student. “You get to work with people directly, and you can build relationships with patients for decades.”
Wallace was recently accepted to Marquette University School of Dentistry in Milwaukee, WI, after completing his undergraduate degree in biochemistry at Carroll University in Waukesha, WI. While dental schools allow students to major in any field, he chose biochemistry because it covered most required science prerequisites, including chemistry, biology, and physics.
In addition to maintaining strong grades, Wallace prepared for the Dental Admission Test (DAT), a standardized exam required for admission. He spent about 250 hours studying.
“It was the hardest test I’ve ever taken,” he said.
Applicants are also expected to shadow dentists, volunteer, and gain clinical experience to demonstrate commitment to the profession. Competition can be steep. At the Marquette University School of Dentistry, for example, about 2,500 students apply each year for roughly 100 available seats.
Wallace said one common misconception about dentistry is that students pursue it primarily for financial reasons. Dental school can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars, and many graduates leave with significant debt.
“It’s too long and too hard for money to be your only motivation,” he noted.
He believes strong communication skills and empathy are essential qualities for a dentist. particularly when treating patients who are in pain or anxious.
Wallace has not yet decided whether he will specialize. He has volunteered in nonprofit clinics serving low-income patients and has also observed pediatric dentistry. For now, he plans to enter dental school with an open mind.
While Wallace prepares to begin his training, other professionals are making their mark on the industry. Dr. Matthew McDonald has spent years building his career in dentistry. He graduated from Marquette University School of Dentistry and the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He owns a dental practice in Janesville, WI.
McDonald acknowledged in an interview that the profession presents challenges. He cited a shortage of dentists in rural areas and a lack of hygienists, which can make scheduling difficult. The physical demands of the job can also lead to back, neck, and hand strain. The field itself has changed since he began practicing. McDonald said there are fewer solo practitioners and more corporate- or group-owned practices than in previous decades.
Technology has also reshaped dental care. Traditional impression materials have largely been replaced by digital scanners, enabling more efficient, more comfortable procedures. McDonald said he entered dentistry for several reasons.
“[One was] my desire to help other people and alleviate their pain,” McDonald said. “I also wanted to be a small business owner and be my own boss.”
McDonald typically arrives at his office about 10-20 minutes before seeing patients to review the day’s schedule with his assistant. He sees patients from morning until late afternoon, balancing restorative procedures with hygiene appointments.
He said the most rewarding part of his job is helping patients feel better and improving their smiles. Despite the changes, McDonald said the core of the profession remains the same: helping patients and building long-term relationships.
“You get to talk to so many different people and hear their stories,” McDonald said. “You become part of their lives.”
