Careers as Dentists, All Other Specialists

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.

The majority of dentists are general practitioners, however, there are 9 dental specialties. Orthodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, pediatric dentist, periodontists, prosthodontists, endodontists, oral pathologists, oral and maxillofacial radiologists, and dental public health specialists.

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 current_location> to get the training you need to start an exciting career as a specialized dentist!