My PI for my clinical dental lab has recently started to talk to me about a DDS/PhD program and encouraging me to do it. I've heard about this previously but never really thought much about it because I haven't really been interested in research. In my lab I mainly just contact participants and I'm not sure how "research heavy" that is considered. I was also briefly in a protein lab for a year but I found it boring during that time since I didn't really understand too much and part of it was online during COVID. She seems to really want me to do it as I've mentioned I may be interested in dental public health and possible residency in ortho/peds. However, I would be happy with just general dentistry. I am also interested in the future in teaching a bit part time or just once in a while. I'm a bit stressed because she wants an answer relatively quick and it could be good because of the stipend/tuition payment since I am low income and will end up having to take out loans to pay for school. She is also encouraging me by saying I could still work as a dentist but then have my own lab and teach. However, I'm worried I don't have enough interest in research itself, but I do have some interest in teaching/public health.
Are you able to do some teaching/public health work with just a DDS? What is it truly like being in a DDS/PhD program and is it worth it? Again I would love to have it pay for my school but I don't know if it's worth it since it could be 7+ years. Would love any info on these programs/advice. Thank you!
Are you able to do some teaching/public health work with just a DDS? What is it truly like being in a DDS/PhD program and is it worth it? Again I would love to have it pay for my school but I don't know if it's worth it since it could be 7+ years. Would love any info on these programs/advice. Thank you!