Kassel, Germany – At just 22 years old, Nils Kuhlmann is now practicing dentistry, removing cavities and fitting crowns. This makes him Germany’s youngest dentist currently practicing.
According to a 2024 study by the German Medical Association, most dental students require a minimum of 11.55 semesters to complete their studies. They graduate at an average age of 26.97 – nearly five years older than Kuhlmann.
“Nils Kuhlmann is definitely one of the youngest dentists Germany has ever had,” the German Association of Dentists confirmed. There have been only “very isolated” cases of dentists this young, with previous instances noted in Bremen in 2016 and in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and Baden-Württemberg in 2022.
Studium mit „sehr gut“ abgeschlossen
Kuhlmann’s accelerated path began with early schooling, entering first grade at age 5, skipping the third grade, and completing his Abitur (high school diploma) at 16 with a grade of 1.5. He began his studies at the University of Göttingen at age 17, completing the standard 10 semesters in just 22 years and 2 months, and graduating with a “very good” grade.
“I wanted to be a dentist since I was 5 or 6 years old. It was initially a childhood wish because my father did it,” Kuhlmann said. “But I think I would have gone into medicine even without my father. I especially enjoy the craftsmanship. And working with people. Office and PC work would not be for me. Dentistry is also a craft.”
Schmerzpatienten am ersten Arbeitstag
Kuhlmann now works 30 to 40 hours a week in his father’s practice in Kassel. His first day of work was December 10th.
“I was really looking forward to working. It was clear to me that I would start in my father’s practice, after all, I have known the people there since I was very young,” Kuhlmann explained. On his first day, the 22-year-old primarily treated patients experiencing pain.
“I had to do a lot of root canals and normal fillings and drill teeth that were hurting. It all went well. I think everyone was very satisfied,” Kuhlmann said.
He will work as an assistant dentist for another two years while completing his doctoral thesis. Afterwards, he could theoretically open his own practice while many of his peers are still in university.
„Ich hänge nicht nur über den Büchern“
“Many didn’t know what they wanted to do and tried something first. In my case, my parents took me in hand after graduating from high school and told me to get through it as quickly as possible. I haven’t regretted that so far. Because after graduating in 2020, there was Corona anyway, so I couldn’t travel,” he said.
When asked about leisure time, Kuhlmann said, “After graduating, I took a 3-week vacation in Asia. I’m not the type who just sits over books. I also like to go out in the evening and do a lot of sports, go for a run or go to the gym.”
Frequently Asked Questions
How old was Nils Kuhlmann when he began studying dentistry?
Nils Kuhlmann began studying dentistry at the University of Göttingen at the age of 17.
How does Kuhlmann’s graduation age compare to the average dental student in Germany?
Kuhlmann graduated at 22 years and 2 months old, while the average dental student in Germany graduates at 26.97 years old, according to a 2024 study by the German Medical Association.
What type of dental work did Kuhlmann perform on his first day?
On his first day, Kuhlmann primarily treated patients experiencing pain, performing root canals, fillings, and drilling teeth.
Given the demands of a medical career, how important is it to find a balance between professional achievement and personal well-being?
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