Dentists diagnose and treat any disease, pain, injury, or deformity of the mouth, including the teeth, gums, jaws, and other areas of the head and neck. Examples of services:
- examine the mouth to diagnose problems
- prescribe and fit materials to repair, replace, or align teeth
- treat patients to prevent cavities and gum diseases
- administer anesthesia and other agents to relieve discomfort during dental procedures
- counsel patients about oral health and hygiene
Salary and Projected Growth
Median salary: $175,621 in NY
Salary range: $87,915 - $236,595
Projected growth: much faster than average
Where Could I Work?
Private and group practice
Hospitals
Research facilities
Military
Colleges and universities
Industry
Your Interests and Abilities
Preparation in the sciences
Analysis and reasoning
Hands-on experiences
Professional Skills
Concern for others
Attention to detail
Communication
Management
Manual and technical dexterity
Education
At least 60 semester hours of preprofessional education, including chemistry, biology, and physics, AND at least 4 years in a Department-registered dentistry licensure program, or the equivalent.
Experience
Complete an approved clinically based dental residency program of at least one year.
Examination
Parts I and II of the National Board Dental Examination.
What Interests You?
Match your interests and personality to career options! Explore a free career tool at mynextmove.org/explore/ip
Tip: try searching for mentoring programs—talk to a dentist about what they do and how they got started!
