This specialty is for someone who wants to focus on a single aspect of dentistry and hone their skills to become a master clinician of that one facet. Most applicants like this speciality because it is one in which you could quickly get patients out of pain, while also saving their natural dentition.
What are some challenges faced as an endodontists?
Endodontics is a fantastic specialty, but it requires a specific personality. The endodontist must be able to manage stress very well, and be able to manage expectations of your own skills. Not every case will be 100% success, so as a professional you should be able to gracefully accept any consequences. You must be able to manage your own expectations not matter the outcome.
What makes a competitive applicant?
A competitive applicant should of course have outstanding grades/rank, personal statement, and collection of letters of recommendations, however that is not the only important measure. Personality matters a lot for some program directors as well as the ability to think critically and on your feet. Surprise questions will be asked that will test your critical thinking, ethics, and decision-making. Research projects are only important if it genuinely follows the applicants interest, and ADAT scores have not been the best indicator for a successful applicant.
Things students wish they knew before applying:
Students said they wish they applied earlier, because endodontics is not a part of the MATCH program. This means the endodontics application process is on a rolling-admission basis, and the earlier you apply the better chance you have getting into the program of your choice. It would be prudent to ask for letters of recommendations fairly early in the year. It is also important to note that many endodontic programs only give you 24 hours to accept a position at their school if they choose you.
Things students wish they knew before interviewing:
Most applicants wished they researched the programs and city more by traveling to the location of their inquiry.
Advice from the UOP Endodontics Chair:
Dr. Peter's advice was to try to get 2-3 years of experience after dental school before applying. This can be from private practice or GPR, as long as you get a lot of clinical experience and feel comfortable doing endodontics.
Do students typically get into Endodontics programs right after dental school?
No. Most students apply 1-4 years after dental school, usually after working in private practice or GPR.