Can I still complete a residency at 40yo?

[steven21]

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I've been practicing general dentistry for quite some time. I finished a GPR when I graduated dental school and now I'm interested in endodontics. Being 41 next month would this make it difficult for me to get a spot in an endodontic residency? Thanks in advance.

 

[Toronto77]

I've been practicing general dentistry for quite some time. I finished a GPR when I graduated dental school and now I'm interested in endodontics. Being 41 next month would this make it difficult for me to get a spot in an endodontic residency? Thanks in advance.

In general, I would like to say the majority of endo programs prefer more seasoned providers. My guess is you would have to show the desire somehow. I came to an OMS program as an older candidate and that is the route I took. However, for OMS I think you are at a disadvantage coming in seasoned.

 

[td2014]

I've been practicing general dentistry for quite some time. I finished a GPR when I graduated dental school and now I'm interested in endodontics. Being 41 next month would this make it difficult for me to get a spot in an endodontic residency? Thanks in advance.

I agree with the above, I think the only thing that would make it difficult would be finding good letters of rec. since most people get them from their dental school faculty, but I think going back to endo after practicing for many years can show a lot of desire to pursue it especially if you do a good job with your personal statement.

There's plenty of older applicants, especially in endo, every program is different so some prefer different things, but if pursuing endo is going to make you happy, I say go for it, I don't think your age will hold you back at all.

 

[bucktoothdental]

I just finished the application process for Endo. I also have experience 5 years. I noticed several candidates and residents had experience. There many programs that will only consider applicants with experience. Good luck with the application. I would also reach out to the programs directors of the schools you are interested in. If possible even visit the school. Several directors indicated candidates that visited the school prior to sending applications showed great interest.