Choosing a career path is an exciting time for someone; contemplating being able to make a comfortable living and make a difference in the lives of others is important to many, and it is a decision that should not be taken lightly.
Dentistry is a noble profession, as it allows you to help others improve the quality of their lives by improving their health. Dentists are responsible for diagnosing and treating oral health issues, improving oral health, and giving patients the tools to proactively manage their overall wellness by beginning with the health of their mouths.
What duties does a dentist have?
Successful dentists perform varied duties in their practices. Some of these duties include:
- Performing extractions, root canals, and tooth replacements
- Providing preventative care and advice
- Performing and examining x rays for development of treatment patient treatment plans
In addition, a successful dentist will familiarize him/herself with all of the day to day aspects of running the administrative side of an office, as this is a vital part of the success and growth of any dental practice.
To consider the field of dentistry, you should have an interest in all aspects of oral care and health, as well as a passion for helping and serving others. If you believe that dentistry is for you, there are some steps you can take to put you on the path to this exciting and rewarding career. Follow these steps, and you’ll be headed in the direction of obtaining your own successful, growing dental practice:
1. Enroll in a Bachelor’s degree program
Most dental schools require their applicants to obtain a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited school before starting their program. It is advised that you emphasize coursework in chemistry, biology, physics, and perhaps business to prepare yourself for the content-specific courses to follow.
2. Research and choose a dental school
There are over 60 dental schools across the United States that are accredited by the ADA, or American Dental Association. Programs are regularly evaluated and assessed for their quality and relevance to the changing dental field. Most dental programs will take four years after a Bachelor’s has been completed, with additional time required for specialty areas like maxillofacial surgery and pediatric care. Choose which area of dentistry is right for and of interest to you, and then begin the process of applying.
3. Take the dental admissions test
Once a school has been selected, you’ll need to take the Dental Admissions Test, which is an assessment of your scientific knowledge and academic capacity. Your overall score, your undergraduate grade point average, and letters of recommendation will ensure your placement in a dental program.
4. Earn your dental degree
While enrolled in your dental program, you’ll need to decide if you are pursuing a DDS, or Doctor of Dental Surgery, or DMD, Doctor of Dental Medicine, degree. Regardless of what you choose, you’ll take courses such as dental pathology, periodontics, anesthesia, orthodontics, radiology, and pharmacology. A good dentist must have intimate knowledge of all of these aspects of oral health in order to provide the best care for patients.
5. Obtain your licensure
Upon completion of your dental program, you’ll be required to take the National Board Dental Examination, during which you’ll demonstrate your proficiency in all areas related to dentistry and provide a level of competency that will enable you to be certified and licensed. Some states might also require additional certification and knowledge, such as CPR, background checks, and interviews. Since requirements vary from state to state, make sure you know what is required of the state you wish to practice in before taking your exams.
6. Consider specialization
While most dentists make a fine living doing preventative care and restorative care, it is possible to attain higher levels of recognition and success by specializing in one or more areas of dental care. Maxillofacial pathology, orthodontic care, and pediatric dentistry are just a few of the areas of specialization that, though they require additional training and time to obtain, are highly sought after by people needing these services.
7. Plan an internship while you are still in school
Nothing is going to be more beneficial to your training than being able to shadow an established dentist with satisfied clients. See if your dental school can help place you into an internship position so that you can learn the basics of running a successful dental practice while you are still enrolled in school. When the time comes to start your own practice, you’ll have the tools and knowledge to gain an advantage over your peers.
8. Work with an established dental office first, then branch out
It is rare that you have the opportunity to start your very own practice right out of dental school. Consider working as a partner with an established dental practice such as www.msdcwagga.com.au to gain valuable knowledge and experience. You can earn while you learn, and you’ll be better equipped to jump at the opportunity to open your own office when it presents itself.
Working as a dentist is a wonderful and rewarding career; helping others, fostering meaningful relationships with clients, and making a positive impact on the health of others are all solid reasons to consider this noble profession.
