Dentistry

Dentistry is a branch of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases, disorders, and conditions of the oral cavity (mouth), including the teeth, gums, and related structures.

Types of Careers in Dentistry

There are various career paths within dentistry, including:

General Dentist: Provides primary dental care, including cleanings, fillings, and root canals.
Orthodontist: Specializes in correcting teeth and jaw alignment using braces and other devices.
Periodontist: Focuses on the treatment of gum diseases and conditions.
Pediatric Dentist: Specializes in dental care for children.
Oral Surgeon: Performs surgeries on the mouth, teeth, and jaw.
Prosthodontist: Designs and fits artificial replacements for teeth and other parts of the mouth.
Dental Hygienist: Works alongside dentists to provide preventive dental care and education.
Dental Assistant: Supports dentists during procedures and assists with patient care.

Qualifications Needed

To become a dentist, you typically need to:

Earn a Bachelor’s Degree: Usually in a science-related field.
Take the Dental Admission Test (DAT): Required for dental school admission.
Complete a Dental School Program: Earn a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree.
Obtain a License: Pass written and clinical exams to practice as a dentist.

Work Environment

Dentists often work in private practices, clinics, hospitals, or educational institutions. The environment can be fast-paced and requires good hand-eye coordination and attention to detail. Dentists may work alone or with a small team, and those who own their practices have more flexibility in their schedules.

Growth Prospects

The demand for dentists is expected to grow about 5% from 2023 to 2033, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by an increasing emphasis on preventive dental care and a growing population that requires dental services.

Compensation

Dentists are well-compensated for their work. The median annual wage for dentists was $170,910 in 2023. Specialists, such as orthodontists and oral surgeons, can earn even higher salaries.