Starting dental school is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. From balancing coursework and preclinic labs to investing in the right equipment and developing healthy habits, there’s a lot to learn during your first year. To help incoming students feel more prepared, Enova ambassador Ana Gabriela Jimenez Plaza shares the lessons she learned during D1 and the advice she wishes someone had given her before starting dental school.
Advice From a D2
Looking back at my first year of dental school, I can honestly say being a D1 changes you. It’s
not just about learning how to cut a prep or memorize every structure in anatomy, it’s about
patience, resilience, and figuring yourself out in a whole new way. Dental school can feel
overwhelming at first, but it’s also one of the most exciting and transformative times you’ll ever
go through.
Life as a D2 Dental Student
Now that I’m a D2, things feel a little different. The workload is still tough, but I feel more
settled and confident. The challenges are still there, but I’ve learned how to manage them better,
lean on my classmates, and celebrate the little wins along the way.
What My First Year of Dental School Taught Me
D1 year really taught me discipline and patience. Messing up in preclinic used to feel like the
end of the world, but I realized it’s just part of learning. I also learned how important it is to have
good people around you, those friendships make the long nights and stressful exams bearable.
More than anything, I started to see myself not just as a student, but as a future dentist slowly
building the foundation for patient care.
Dental School Essentials Every D1 Should Have
- Good loupes and light: they’re an investment, but trust me, your eyes and neck will thank
you. Mine are from Enova Illumination, and I couldn’t be happier with them. - A planner or digital calendar: being organized saves you from so much unnecessary
stress. - Healthy habits: sleep, exercise, and meals are not optional; they keep you going.
- A support system: classmates, friends, family! Have people to remind you that you’re
more than dental school.
My Best Advice for Incoming Dental Students
- You don’t need to have it all figured out right away.
- Take breaks without guilt, they’ll make you sharper when you get back to studying.
- Not every opportunity is worth chasing, stick with what excites you.
- Your mindset is everything. Comparing yourself to others is a dead end.
If you’re starting out as a D1, know this: Some days will feel impossible, but each challenge
shapes you into the dentist you’re working to become. Trust the process and don’t forget to enjoy
the ride.
Ana Gabriela Jimenez Plaza, M.S.
D.M.D Candidate | Class of 2028
Tufts University School of Dental Medicine
What supplies do I need for my first year of dental school?
While every dental school is different, most D1 students benefit from having quality dental loupes, a reliable headlight, a planner or digital calendar, and a strong support system. Investing in the right tools early can help improve your learning experience and build healthy clinical habits.
When should dental students buy loupes?
Many students purchase dental loupes during D1 or before entering clinic. Starting early allows you to develop proper posture, improve visualization, and become comfortable working with magnification before treating patients.
What magnification is best for dental students?
The ideal magnification depends on your clinical needs and personal preferences. Many dental students begin with lower magnification before advancing as their skills and procedures become more specialized. A personalized fitting can help determine the best option.
What are the biggest challenges during D1?
Many students struggle with time management, adjusting to the workload, and developing hand skills. Building healthy habits and a strong support system can make the transition easier.
