Dentistry is one of the highest paying and most respected professions in America. A dentist’s work can have a major impact on people’s lives, bringing them relief from pain or restoring their smiles. However, not everyone is ready for the huge debt and approximately eight years of schooling to become a dentist. The good thing is that there are many more jobs in the dental field outside of just being a dentist.
The dental field is growing fast as well, with an increasing number of jobs now available because of the aging population. And it’s easier than ever to get into the dental field.
So, if you’re considering a career in the dental field, read below about the most common jobs available along with their responsibilities, schooling, and salaries.
If you’re interested in a dental career, it’s important to do your research and find the right program for you. Talk to dentists and dental hygienists to learn more about what their jobs are like.
Dental Hygienist
What are the responsibilities of a dental hygienist?
- Oral Interviews
- Cleaning and maintaining patients’ teeth (for example, removing plaque or applying fluoride)
- Teaching patients of all ages about good oral health
How much schooling is required to be a dental hygienist?
Dental hygienists need an associate degree in dental hygiene to practice. Many community colleges and universities offer programs that last about two years. There are also bachelor’s and master’s degree programs for dental hygienists. These programs typically require four years of study.
Dental Technician
What are the responsibilities of a dental technician?
While they work in a dentist office and are required to have the same knowledge a dental hygienist has on topics like tooth extraction, implantation, and assisting with extractions, their specialty is more medical oriented. They usually provide false teeth for people who need them. Dental technicians can also provide material that use impressions of patients’ molars or dental records to make dental appliances.
How much schooling is required to be a dental technician?
A dental technician typically has an associate degree in dental technology, which takes about two years to complete. There are also bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in dental technology. These programs typically require four years of study.
What is the average salary of a dental technician?
The average salary for a dental technician is $50,000.
Periodontist
What are the responsibilities of a Periodontist?
Periodontists are dental specialists who diagnose, treat, and manage diseases of the gums and supporting bone. They often perform surgery, including gum grafts and tooth extractions.
How much schooling is required to be a periodontist?
Periodontists typically have a DDS or DMD degree from an accredited dental school. They then complete a three-year residency in periodontics.
What is the average salary of a periodontist?
The average salary for a periodontist is $142,000.
Orthodontist
What are the responsibilities of an orthodontist?
Orthodontists are dental specialists who diagnose, treat, and manage problems with teeth and jaws that are caused by improper alignment. They often use braces to straighten teeth.
How much schooling is required to be an orthodontist?
Orthodontists typically have a DDS or DMD degree from an accredited dental school. They then complete a two- to three-year residency in orthodontics.
What is the average salary of an orthodontist?
The average salary for an orthodontist is $140,000.
Pediatric Dentist
What are the responsibilities of a pediatric dentist?
Pediatric dentists are dental specialists who diagnose, treat, and manage problems with teeth and jaws that are caused by improper alignment. They often use braces to straighten teeth.
How much schooling is required to be a pediatric dentist?
Pediatric dentists typically have a DDS or DMD degree from an accredited dental school. They then complete a two- to three-year residency in orthodontics.
What is the average salary of a pediatric dentist?
The average salary for a pediatric dentist is $140,000.
Dentist
What are the responsibilities of a dentist?
Dentists are responsible for diagnosing and treating oral health problems. They also provide preventive care, such as teeth cleanings, to help their patients maintain healthy teeth and gums. Dentists may also perform procedures such as root canals, crowns, and bridges.
How much schooling is required to be a dentist?
Dentists must complete four years of undergraduate study, four years of dental school, and a one- to two-year residency program.
What is the average salary of a dentist?
Dentists earned a median salary of $151,850 in May 2017, meaning that half of dentists made more than this amount and half made less. The top 10% of earners made more than $208,000.
But as the population grows older, the need for dentists will only increase. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the number of jobs for dentists will grow by 18% from 2016 to 2026, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.
If you want to become a dentist, you should first assess your qualifications.
- Are you passionate about helping people?
- Do you have a strong science background?
- Are you comfortable working with your hands?
If you answered yes to these questions, then a career in dentistry may be right for you.
Conclusion
There are many different jobs in the dental field, from dentists to dental hygienists to dental technicians. Each of these positions requires different levels of schooling and training and come with their own set of responsibilities and salaries. If you’re interested in a career in dentistry, it’s important to do your research and find the right program for you. Talk to dentists and dental hygienists to learn more about what their jobs are like. There are many different opportunities available in the dental field, so there’s sure to be a job that fits your qualifications and interests.