There are a multitude of career opportunities in dentistry. These can include general dentistry as well as entering into one of a number of more specialized disciplines.
A general dentist performs several different duties. These include removing dental caries and decay, filling cavities, extracting teeth, applying sealants, treating gum disease, taking teeth impressions and prescribing medication when necessary.
In order to become a general practitioner, it is mandated that a dentist receive some level of specialty education that is accepted by the American dental Association before a dentists can perform more complicated dental services. Also, a dentist is more likely to increase their earning power by taking on at least one specialization.
One of the most common of these specializations is orthodontics, which is also one of the highest paid specialties in dentistry.
There are several educational requirements involved in becoming a dentist. There are approximately 56 dental schools within the United States that are currently accredited by the American Dental Association. In order to be accepted into any one of these, an individual must have at a minimum of 2 years of pre-dental education as well as a Bachelor's degree in any science subject. There is also a mandatory Admissions Test that is required for entry into any dental school. In order to graduate from a dental school, a program participant must achieve a designated level of skill in various trainings. Once a future dentist has passed dental school, they must also pass a licensure exam in the state in which they plan to practice. These exams are specific to the state and may change from state to state. Once this exam is passed, there is a final National Board Dental Examination that must be passed before an individual can become a practicing dental practitioner.
The opportunities and job outlook for dental practitioners are both promising. A 2007 survey showed that the average dentist earns approximately $137,630. Those who are self-employed earn an even higher salary, as well as those who offer some kind of specialization.
There is much appeal to becoming a dentist and the opportunity is often viewed as being very attractive. The career offers the ability for an individual to be their own boss, make their own schedule, and be able to coordinate private and professional life. It is also expected that there will be a large nuber of dentists who will be retiring within the next 20 years, opening up the need for new dentists to enter the field. Lastly, the path of dentistry is one that offers a high paying salary and a prestigious life-long career