Dentists are responsible for treating most problems with the mouth, teeth, and gums. Dentists instruct patients on preventative dental care, which assists them in preventing damage to their teeth and gums that would require further dental procedures. Dentists also repair teeth through fillings, removal of tooth decay, repair of fractured teeth, placing plastic coatings, among many other duties. Dentists also may perform specific surgeries on gums and bone. They make models of teeth and make measurements of teeth for dental prosthetic, they are also authorized to administer anesthetic, and prescribe anti-biotic and other medications for their patients.
Dentists can specialize, however the majority are general dentists. Dentists are also solo practitioners, meaning they own their own practice independently, often purchasing an existing practice from another dentist or creating their own shortly after graduating from dental school.
Every dentist must graduate from an accredited dental school and pass a variety of state licensing tests before they are allowed practice. Most dental school applicants have a bachelor’s degree, but a small number enter dental school after 2-3 years of college. Be sure to look into the programs being offered in many locations to get the training you need to start an exciting career as a general dentist!