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Graduates of dental school programs can choose from a variety of career paths
and may also choose to pursue research later in their career. Dentists are
trained to diagnose, treat, and prevent problems pertaining to the mouth, teeth,
and tissues in the oral area. They may be involved with extracting teeth,
removing decay, filling cavities, and repairing fractured teeth. They are often
responsible for administering anesthetics and writing prescriptions. While some
work in independently owned, private practices, others may work at hospitals or
with a large group of specialists.
Job Description and Responsibilities of Dental
School Graduates
Graduates of dental schools may work in a group office or
set up their own practice. They may choose work with partners, or with a team of
associate dentists. Common tasks and responsibilities include:
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Handling equipment such as x-ray machines, drills, and
dental instruments
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Wearing appropriate clothing and adhering to strict
hygienic guidelines
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Adhering to ethical laws and regulations
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Providing instruction on diet, brushing, flossing, and
the use of fluorides
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Administering the appropriate anesthetics, and writing
prescriptions for antibiotics
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Overseeing administrative tasks of dental assistants,
dental hygienists, and dental laboratory technicians
A career in dentistry requires specific abilities and
skills, and this is developed over time. These may include:
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Good visual memory
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Strong judgment
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Good diagnostic ability and manual skills
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Strong scientific ability
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Self-discipline and good business sense
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Strong communication skills
Career Options After Dental School
Graduates can choose to work in a variety
of fields and they may pursue nine distinct specializations. These include:
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Orthodontists, who are involved with straightening teeth
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Oral and maxillofacial surgeons, who are involved with
operating on the mouth and jaws
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Pediatric dentists, who focus on dentistry for children
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Periodontists, who are involved with treating gums and
bone
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Prosthodontists, who are involved with replacing missing
teeth with permanent fixtures
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Endodontists, who are involved with performing root
canal therapy
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Public health dentists, who are involved with promoting
good health in the community
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Oral pathologists, who are involved with studying oral
diseases
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Oral and maxillofacial radiologists, involved with
diagnosing diseases in the neck
State Exams and Licensing After Dental School
All dentists must earn a license in order to
practice, and this is required by all 50 states in the United States and the
District of Columbia. Each student must pass a written and
practical examination. This is then approved by the State licensing department
that administers the National Dental Board Examination. Each state is
responsible for administering the exam at various regional testing agencies.
Dental schools themselves require at least two
years of college-level education in any industry. Students can choose to focus
on predental education where coursework focuses on sciences, biology,
mathematics, and chemistry. Dental school can be competitive as jobs are in high
demand. Each school requires applicants to pass the Dental Admissions
Test (DAT). This test also takes into account an applicant's grade point average
and activities.
The majority of programs last 4
years, and award degrees such as the degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or
a degree in the Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD). During the first two years,
students take part in classroom instruction and lab work in the basic sciences.
The last two years often involve treating patients under the supervision of
licensed dentists.
Dental Schools Accreditation
The American Dental Association's Commission on
Dental Accreditation is responsible for accreditation of 56 dental schools
around the country.
Dental School Graduates Earning Potential and
Employment Prospects
The demand for dentists is growing, and steady
job growth is expected through 2014. Many dentists eventually take over
practices that they work for, or establish their own. The baby boomer
generation, youth, and elderly all have increasing needs for dental treatment.
Dentists made a median salary of $129,920 in 2004, and these
earnings vary depending on the level of experience and type of specialization.
Related occupations include:
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Optometrists
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Chiropractors
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Veterinarians
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Podiatrists
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Surgeons
- Psychologist
- Military Dentistry
- Academic Dentistry
- Dental Laboratory Technology
- Hospital Dentistry
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