Dentists are professionals who care for the health of our mouths and jaws. They treat conditions such as gum disease, tooth decay and crooked teeth, but also advise patients on how to best take care of their oral health and prevent problems from occurring in the first place. Becoming a dentist takes years of study and practice, and the profession can be very demanding on new graduates. However, the financial rewards are high for those who can manage the rigor of dental school and undergraduate debt and still find time to pursue their hobbies or families.
A general dentist (credentialed as a Doctor of Dental Surgery/D.D.S. or a Doctor of Dental Medicine/D.M.D.) is the primary point of contact for most people in their daily oral care and can provide a range of services to maintain optimal oral health. They can perform regular cleanings and exams, detect early signs of tooth or gum disease and take X-rays to help them make an accurate diagnosis.
In addition to examining and treating teeth and gums, dentists can do cosmetic work to improve the appearance of your smile. This may include tooth whitening to brighten discolored teeth or cosmetic bonding to correct minor chips, cracks and gaps in your teeth. They can also replace missing teeth with bridges or dentures and provide you with the education you need to understand your treatment options.
Some dentists choose to specialize in specific areas like orthodontics, periodontics or prosthodontics. This allows them to further focus their attention and training on those particular problems and treatments. Specialized dentistry may also include dental pharmacology, which is the study of how medicines interact with oral tissues and how they can affect dental health.
Whether they’re diagnosing, treating or advising patients about their oral health, dentists are often a vital member of a team that also includes dental assistants and hygienists. As a result, they need to know how to work with and manage their staff to ensure that the patient receives the best possible care.
If you’re thinking of becoming a dentist, start your journey by completing a bachelor’s degree in a subject such as biology, chemistry or health and then earning a bachelor’s of science degree. You should also get involved with a pre-dental club or career center to learn more about the field of dentistry and prepare for the Dental Admission Test. After you finish undergraduate school and dental school, consider a residency to gain practical experience and advance your career. You’ll have to pay for these extra years of education, though, so keep in mind your debt-to-income ratio as you make this decision. Be sure to factor in any potential stipend offered by your program. If you don’t qualify for a resident position, there are many other volunteer and shadowing opportunities that can give you an idea of what it’s really like to be a dentist. Be sure to check application deadlines and be ready to respond quickly if you’re accepted.