Career Definition a General Dentist
Dentists are responsible for diagnosing and treating problems with the teeth, gums and tissue in the mouth. These doctors instruct individuals on brushing, flossing and all other aspects of dental care. Dentists will meet with patients in their office routinely and remove tooth decay, fill cavities, repair teeth and treat gum diseases.
| Education | Doctoral degree in dentistry |
| Job Skills | Communication, leadership, organization, problem solving |
| Median Salary (May 2021)* | $160,370 (all general dentists) |
| Job Growth (2021-2031)* | 6% (all general dentists) |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Required Education
According to the American Dental Association, www.ada.org, applicants are required to have a bachelor's degree before being admitted into dental school. Undergrads should focus on many science courses, like biology and chemistry. All applicants must take the Dental Admissions Test (DAT), and dental schools will focus on an individual's DAT score, GPA, recommendations and interviews. Dental school is a 4-year commitment and includes classes on microbiology, biochemistry, anatomy and physiology, as well as clinical practices, safety and professional ethics. Dentists are required to be licensed in the state they are working in, which requires passing a written and practical examination.
Skills Required
A career in dentistry requires excellent vision and an aesthetic eye regarding color, space and shape. Dentists need business sense, communication skills and self-discipline. These doctors also need to understand the use of dental equipment and know how to supervise hygienists, assistants, technicians and receptionists.
Career and Economic Outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS, www.bls.gov) reported that job opportunities for dentists are expected to remain strong through the coming decade, with job growth of 6% from 2021-2031. There will be more opportunities for dentists as members of the baby-boom generation get older; the BLS predicted that there would not be enough dentists to meet the needs of communities across the U.S. The median annual salary of dentists was $160,370 as of May 2021.
Alternate Career Options
Education in medicine and dental care can prepare you for a variety of similar occupations, including optometry and dental hygiene.
Optometrist
Also requiring a doctoral degree and about eight years of education, these doctors examine, diagnose and treat eyes, prescribing vision corrections as needed. Faster-than-average employment growth of 10% was predicted by the BLS from 2021-2031 for optometrists. These professionals earned a median annual wage of $124,300 in 2021, according to the BLS.
Dental Hygienist
For those interested in providing dental care, but wishing to enter the profession more quickly with an associate's degree, the job of a dental hygienist might be appealing. These professionals examine patients for oral disease, clean teeth and provide patient education. A faster than average job growth of 9% was projected by the BLS from 2021-2031, and a median annual salary of $77,810 was reported in 2021.
