In order to become a dental expert witness, you will first need to become a dentist. This means you must obtain a bachelor's degree and then pass an examination to be admitted into dental school. During this time, it can be a good idea to specialize in cosmetic dentistry, crowns, bridgework, or implants. Interning with a certified dental expert witness during the summer months is a good way to gain experience.
During your first four years of college, you may want to major in a field such as biology. Doing so can help you later when you are admitted to dental school. Taking courses in forensic science could also help you after you become a dental expert witness.
It's a good idea to know what types of things you may be asked to testify about after you become a dental expert witness. An expert witness in this field is often called on to estimate the amount of damage done to the face and jaw during an automobile accident. This witness could also be used in criminal cases involving injury to the mouth. For these reasons, it could be a good idea to specialize in advanced surgical procedures in order to gain credibility in these areas.
There may be dentists in your local area who are qualified to be a dental expert witness. While you are in dental school, try to gain an internship with this professional. Tell him you would like to become a dental expert witness and ask him to give you on-the-job training to help you prepare for this career.
After you are licensed as a dentist, you can establish yourself as an expert in your own right. This can be done by writing for trade publications, working in research and development, or teaching at a local college. These activities should be included on your curriculum vitae in the event you are contacted by an attorney to testify at a trial.
Once you have gained credibility among your peers, you can then advertise your services to the general public. You can begin by placing ads on the Internet and in legal journals. Your list of credentials should include your education, experience, and the type of testimony you consider yourself able to give as an expert.
You should be aware of the laws that govern expert testimony in your jurisdiction. Doing so can help you in your role as a dental expert witness as well as in private practice. Following the law can help you maintain a high level of credibility, which is important to your patients as well as the litigants you serve.