How to Ask for Strong Letters of Recommendation for Dental School
Asking for letters of recommendation for dental school can feel awkward—but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, a well-written, personalized letter from the right person can make or break your application. Dental schools use these letters to gauge not just your academic ability, but your character, professionalism, and readiness for the rigors of a DDS or DMD program.
In this guide from Dental School Declassified, we’ll break down exactly how to ask for strong letters of recommendation that actually help you stand out—without feeling weird about it.
🧠 Why Strong Letters Matter More Than You Think
Admissions committees receive thousands of letters every cycle. Most are generic, vague, and forgettable. A strong letter, on the other hand:
Shares specific examples of your character and work ethic
Highlights your growth and potential as a future dental professional
Is written by someone who truly knows you
Reinforces the rest of your application narrative
Bottom line: Weak letters hurt. Strong letters help. Let’s get you the strong kind.
✅ Step 1: Know What Dental Schools Require
Most dental schools require 3–4 letters of recommendation, and these typically include:
2 science professors who taught you in a prerequisite course
1 dentist you shadowed or worked with
Optional: additional letter from a mentor, employer, research advisor, or non-science professor
💡 Check each school’s ADEA AADSAS requirements carefully before choosing your letter writers.
✅ Step 2: Choose the Right Recommenders
Here’s what your letter writers should have:
Firsthand experience with your work ethic and professionalism
A clear memory of who you are (don’t ask someone you barely know)
A positive relationship with you—someone who wants to advocate for you
Ideally, someone who has written letters for other successful applicants
Avoid:
Family friends or relatives
Well-known people who don’t really know you
Passive or lukewarm professors who can’t give specific praise
✅ Step 3: Ask Early and In Person (If You Can)
Professors and dentists are busy. Give them plenty of notice—ideally 2–3 months in advance of when you need the letter.
If possible, ask in person or via a professional email that includes:
A quick reminder of who you are and what class/experience you shared
Your reason for applying to dental school
Why you’re asking them in particular
A clear, polite request for a strong letter of recommendation
📧 Sample Email Template:
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request for Dental School
Dear Dr. [Last Name],
I hope you're doing well. I truly enjoyed being a student in your [Course Name] class, and I appreciated your support and feedback throughout the semester. I’m currently preparing my dental school applications and would be honored if you would write me a strong letter of recommendation.
I’ve attached my resume, a draft of my personal statement, and a summary of the programs I’m applying to. The letters are submitted through ADEA AADSAS, and they’re due by [Deadline].
Please let me know if you would feel comfortable writing a strong, personalized letter on my behalf. I’d be happy to set up a time to chat or provide any additional materials.
Thank you again for your consideration.
Best,
[Your Full Name]
✅ Step 4: Make It Easy for Them to Write a Great Letter
Once they agree, support them with materials to make writing easier:
A copy of your resume or CV
A draft of your personal statement
A brief list of accomplishments or experiences you’d like them to highlight
Your DAT score and GPA, if strong
Instructions on how and where to upload the letter (ADEA AADSAS portal)
A clear deadline
💡 Pro Tip: You can even offer to draft a short bullet list of traits or memories they could reference—especially helpful if it's been a while since they worked with you.
✅ Step 5: Follow Up and Say Thank You
Don’t ghost your recommenders after they agree! Do this instead:
Send a polite reminder 2–3 weeks before the deadline
After they submit, send a thank-you email or handwritten note
Let them know the outcome of your applications—you might need their help again!
💬 Final Thoughts: Don’t Be Afraid to Advocate for Yourself
Asking for a strong letter of recommendation isn’t selfish—it’s professional. You’re showing respect for your own goals and your recommender’s time by being prepared, polite, and proactive.
At Dental School Declassified, we coach students through every step of the application process—from choosing recommenders to perfecting personal statements and prepping for interviews.
Need help planning your timeline, prepping your materials, or deciding who to ask? We’ve got you.
👉 Book a one-on-one advising session with our expert team of dentists who’ve been there, done that, and are ready to help you succeed.
