LOR from dentist: make it or break it?

[toothbugger]

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Hey guys,

So I'm getting my app. ready for this cycle and want to know what you guys think on a LOR from a dentist. I shadowed my dentist for about 20 hours, but she always seemed really busy. She doesn't talk or explain too much, so I don't think she knows me well. But she is nice, just not super eager to talk too much. I am also the first shadowee she's ever had.

Do you guys think if I asked her for a LOR she would give me a good one? Would my application be significantly less competitive without a dentist LOR? I have 2 letters of references so far. One from my Master's research supervisor, and another from a lab director/instructor at my university that I worked for as a teaching assistant.

Any advice would be helpful! Thanks in advance.

 

[KentUT]

Majority of dental schools require that you have a letter from a dentist. That in itself will hurt/kill your chances at some schools. You might be able to check if any schools don't require a dentist LOR and apply to them but not having one could be a pretty big deal. Did you shadow any other dentists? I think if all else fails you'll just have to go with her for the letter.

 

[toothbugger]

Thanks for the advice. I did shadow another dentist. He's a pediatric dentist. But it was only once and then he had to move offices and go on vacation. I guess I'll ask her and hope for the best. Thanks!

 

[KentUT]

Yeah you might want to just ask her then. They know how important letters are. Just be professional about it, and ask her face to face. I am sure you will get a good letter from her. Good luck!!