In this new Q&A format of the Dental School Guide Podcast, Dr. Tanner Townsend sits down with Adnan, a pre-dental student from Ottawa, Canada, to answer real questions about the dental school admissions process.

We discuss what international and Canadian students should know when applying to U.S. dental schools and what Canadian schools look for in applicants. Adnan shares his perspective as a fourth-year undergraduate navigating the process, while Dr. Townsend provides tips, tricks, and strategies to help students increase their chances of getting accepted the first time they apply.

Listen now for insider advice on applying to dental school as a Canadian or international student — and learn how to stand out in a competitive process.

In this episode of the Dental School Guide Podcast, Dr. Tanner Townsend speaks with Dr. Allison Wright (Dean of Admissions), Rebekah (Student Affairs Officer and Pre-Dental Recruiter), and Missy (Assistant Director of Admissions & Registrar) from the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry.

We explore what makes UK Dentistry unique — from tutoring and academic support services to clinical experience and faculty mentorship. The team shares what they look for in an ideal dental school applicant, emphasizing that it’s not just about GPA but about consistency, passion, and authenticity.

You’ll also learn about the interview process, selection criteria, and post-graduation support available to students. Their advice for pre-dental students? “Comparison is the thief of joy” — focus on your own path, your passion for dentistry, and trust the process.

🎧 Listen now for insider insights into admissions and student life at the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry.

In this episode, Dr. Tanner Townsend sits down with Jake from Dentist Advisors to break down everything dental students and new dentists need to know about student loans and financial planning.

We cover the differences between federal and private loans, how subsidized vs. unsubsidized loans work, and the impact of interest accrual while in school. Jake also explains repayment plans, the recent student loan bill, and what it means for new grads.

Beyond loans, we dive into building an emergency fund, investment and tax strategies, and the most common financial mistakes new dentists make — plus how to avoid them.

🎧 Listen now to learn how to take control of your student loans and start your dental career on the right financial path.

https://dentistadvisors.com/

Dr. Tanner Townsend talks with Lauryn from Student Loan Planner about the smartest ways for dental students and new dentists to manage and repay dental school debt.

We cover federal vs. private loans, income-driven repayment plans, loan forgiveness programs, refinancing, and how recent policy changes could impact student loans moving forward. Lauryn shares actionable strategies to save money, reduce interest, and create a clear repayment plan for your future.

🎧 Listen now to learn how to take control of your dental school debt.

https://www.studentloanplanner.com/

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Michael, a recently accepted dental student at Lincoln Memorial University College of Dental Medicine. Michael shares his unconventional path to dental school—including taking the DAT later than planned and the emotional toll of not getting in right away.

Rather than giving up, Michael stayed focused, strengthened his application, and stayed persistent through the ups and downs. His story is a powerful reminder that the road to dental school isn’t always linear—and that holding onto hope and continuing to take action can open the door to your dream.

If you're feeling discouraged or delayed in your journey, this episode is for you.

In this episode of the Dental School Guide Podcast, we sit down with Karoline, a pre-dental student from Boston who recently got accepted to NYU College of Dentistry. Karoline opens up about the uncertainty and overwhelm she felt during the dental school application process — from not knowing where to start, to preparing for interviews and tackling the KIRA assessment.

She shares how Dental School Guide helped simplify the entire process and gave her the clarity and confidence she needed to navigate it all. Karoline’s advice for fellow pre-dental students: “Don’t worry, stay calm, and trust the process — everything will work out.”

In this episode of the Dental School Guide Podcast, we chat with a recently accepted student at Roseman University College of Dental Medicine whose journey to dental school is all about perseverance and purpose.

Her passion for dentistry started in high school during a simple dental visit — the moment she saw a filling being placed, she knew she had found her calling. While her path wasn’t easy — facing challenges with less-than-ideal grades and DAT scores — she stayed focused, gained hands-on experience as a dental assistant, and applied to schools that felt like the right fit for her.

She shares how Dental School Guide gave her the support, honesty, and confidence she needed to present her best self throughout the process.

Her message to others? Everyone has their own timeline. Keep going, believe in yourself, and don’t be afraid to go after your dream of becoming a dentist.

In this inspiring episode of the Dental School Guide Podcast, we sit down with Taia, a newly accepted student at Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry. Taia shares how her own dental transformation as a patient ignited her passion for creating confident smiles.

She opens up about a family crisis that caused her grades to dip — and how she bounced back with a perfect GPA in her master’s program. From shadowing a family friend to joining a pre-dental club, volunteering, and even working in a dental lab, Taia built a well-rounded application with grit and intention.

Taia also discusses how Dental School Guide helped her gain lab experience, prepare for interviews, and navigate the application process — including the power of sending postcards to schools early on.

If you’re a pre-dental student struggling with low stats or self-doubt, Taia’s story is proof that resilience, authenticity, and asking for help can open the door to your dream.

In this episode of Dental School Guide Podcast, we sit down with the admissions team from the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine to explore what makes their program stand out. From cutting-edge training with AI simulation technology to extensive hands-on experience outside the classroom during the fourth year, CU Dental is redefining how future dentists are prepared. We also dive into key tips for applicants hoping to stand out in the admissions process and what the University of Colorado looks for in future students. Whether you're just starting your pre-dental journey or preparing to apply, this episode is packed with valuable insights straight from the source.

In this episode of Dental School Guide, we sit down with Alyson, who’s preparing to start dental school at Lincoln Memorial University in Knoxville, Tennessee. In this episode, Alyson shares her story and how her passion for dentistry was sparked!From early inspiration to receiving multiple acceptances—and a truly one-of-a-kind acceptance story—Alyson’s journey is full of perspective, perseverance, and purpose. Her story is a must-listen for anyone exploring a career in dentistry.