If you’re passionate about animal health and oral care, becoming a veterinary dental specialist could be the perfect career path. This rewarding field combines diagnostic skills, surgical expertise, and compassion for pets in need of dental care. Here’s how you can pursue this specialized veterinary role.
Step 1: Earn Your Veterinary Degree (DVM or VMD)
The first step to becoming a veterinary dental specialist is earning a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or Veterinary Medical Doctor (VMD) degree from an accredited school. Prepare with:
-
A strong undergraduate background in science
-
Clinical animal care experience
-
Four years of veterinary training, including introductory dentistry modules
Veterinary school lays the groundwork for all future specialization.
Step 2: Build Clinical and Dental Experience
After earning your degree, gain practical experience in general practice or through a small animal rotating internship. Focus on areas like:
-
Anesthesia and surgery
-
Pain management and radiology
-
Basic dental procedures
These are essential for any aspiring veterinary dental specialist.
Step 3: Enter an AVDC-Approved Residency in Veterinary Dentistry
To qualify for board certification, complete a residency through the American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC). Programs are available through:
-
Universities and teaching hospitals
-
Approved private veterinary dental clinics
Residencies typically take 2–3 years and involve advanced procedures such as endodontics, orthodontics, and oral surgery.
Step 4: Submit Your Credentials for Review
After your residency, submit a credentialing application to the AVDC that includes:
-
Case logs
-
In-depth case reports
-
Published research
-
Proof of continuing education
This documentation proves your qualifications as a veterinary dental specialist.
Step 5: Pass the AVDC Board Examination
The AVDC exam has both written and practical components:
-
The written exam tests your knowledge of anatomy, oral pathology, radiology, and surgical principles
-
The practical exam evaluates your clinical proficiency in performing dental procedures and interpreting imaging
Passing both components earns you the official title of Diplomate of the American Veterinary Dental College.
Step 6: Maintain Your Board Certification
To remain a certified veterinary dental specialist, you must:
-
Complete ongoing continuing education
-
Stay current with research and technology in veterinary dentistry
-
Maintain ethical and professional standards
Learn more about board certification and updates at the AVDC official site.
Why Choose Veterinary Dentistry as a Specialty?
Veterinary dentistry allows you to dramatically improve the comfort and health of animals. Treating fractured teeth, removing tumors, and managing chronic pain are just a few of the life-changing procedures a veterinary dental specialist performs every day.
Learn more about what veterinary dentists do and how they support general practitioners at Animal Dental Specialists of Arizona.
Final Thoughts: Is a Career in Veterinary Dental Specialization Right for You?
Pursuing a career as a veterinary dental specialist is both demanding and deeply fulfilling. From gaining clinical skills to passing the AVDC exam, each step prepares you to provide expert care that enhances pets’ lives.
If you’re interested in learning more about veterinary dental procedures or seeing specialists in action, explore our team and services at Animal Dental Specialists of Arizona.