Career roadmap
How to Become a Prosthodontist
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a prosthodontist, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a prosthodontist: (1) earn a bachelor’s degree, (2) complete dental school, (3) complete residency, (4) earn board certification, (5) practice. Most people need about 11 years after high school. BLS lists “doctoral or professional degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a prosthodontist
Earn a bachelor’s degree
Science courses.
Complete dental school
Four years.
Complete residency
Three years.
Earn board certification
Optional but valued.
Practice
Private or academic.
Education and training requirements
A DDS or DMD degree plus a three-year accredited prosthodontics residency is required.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Doctoral or professional degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Internship/residency |
| Typical training time | 11 years after high school |
Certifications and licenses
- American Board of Prosthodontics certification: Board certification.
- State dental license: Required.
- Specialty license: In some states.
- Implant training: Advanced courses.
Skills to build now
Start with fixed prosthodontics, removable prosthodontics, and implant restoration, and practice artistic eye and precision. Learning the prosthodontist vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Prosthodontic Resident: Train.
- Prosthodontist: Practice.
- Practice Owner: Run a practice.
- Faculty: Teach.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Prosthodontist training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long is training?
Dental school plus a three-year residency.
How long does it take to become a prosthodontist?
Most people need about 11 years after high school of training. A DDS or DMD degree plus a three-year accredited prosthodontics residency is required.
Do you need a degree to be a prosthodontist?
Yes. BLS lists a doctoral or professional degree as the typical entry-level education, and you also need a state license to practice.
What certifications are available for prosthodontists?
Common credentials include American Board of Prosthodontics certification, State dental license, Specialty license, and Implant training. Prosthodontists need a state dental license; some states also license specialists.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 29-1024 (Prosthodontists).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Prosthodontists (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.