Though most aspiring dentists go on to become general dentist practitioners, some might want to specialize in a particular field, such as pediatric dentistry or periodontics.
Full Answer
What should I consider when choosing a dental career?
Consider your favorite aspects of the career, such as helping others, providing oral health education or working in complex dentistry fields. Many employers in health care fields like to see a genuine passion for patient care and motivation to contribute.
How do I choose the right dental school?
Speaking of dental schools, the dental school you pick must be accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). The American Dental Association (ADA) reports that there are more than 65 accredited dental schools in the US.
How to find the right dentist for You?
Here are some helpful resources. Once you’ve found a few good candidates, visit their websites and see if their offices are on social media to learn more about them. To find the right dentist, don’t be shy about calling or visiting the dentists on your list before deciding.
Should you go to a local dentist or orthodontist?
As a high school student, you likely go to the dentist or orthodontist fairly often and are therefore familiar with at least one dental professional in your area. A local dentist can be an excellent resource for teaching you more about dentistry and what kind of career you're envisioning for yourself.
Which field is best for dentist?
Bachelor Of Dental Surgery [BDS] (Oral Medicine & Radiology) Students who have completed their 12th class from a recognized institution along with biology as one of the major subjects can apply for admission into this course.
Should I major in biology if I want to be a dentist?
Dental schools traditionally select applicants who have taken various levels of biology, chemistry & physics classes, along with arts & social sciences classes. Here's a general application timeline for students studying at a four-year undergraduate institution and should be used as a guideline only.
What type of dentist make the most?
The Highest Paying Dental Jobs for 2020ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGEON: $307,999 (according to ZipRecruiter)ENDODONTIST: $287,937 average annual salary (according to ZipRecruiter)ORTHODONTIST: $284,763 average annual salary (according to ZipRecruiter)More items...•
What degree do most dentists have?
Popular Undergraduate Majors for DentistryBiochemistry. With a focus on biology, calculus, chemistry, and physics, students aiming for this degree will have the sound foundation needed for the practical side of dentistry. ... Molecular Biology. ... Biomedical Engineering. ... Pre-Dentistry.
Should I major in biology or chemistry for dentistry?
Dental schools require students to obtain two semesters of chemistry before they are allowed to enroll into a program. Since chemistry covers the study of matter, this particular degree will allow you to better understand dental diseases like tooth decay, the role of saliva in oral health, and the composition of teeth.
Is Psychology a good major for dental school?
(In addition to the pre-req courses I did take a number of upper-level bio courses just to prove myself to the d-schools). IMO, psychology is a good major for dental school.
Who is the richest dentist in the world?
Dr. Dan FisherThe List of TOP 10 Richest Dentists in the WorldRankDoctor's NameNet Worth (approx)#1Dr. Dan Fisher$ 1.1 Billion#2Dr. Richard Malouf$ 1 Billion#3Dr. David Alameel$ 900 Million#4Dr. Clint Herzog$ 100 Million6 more rows•Jan 4, 2017
Is dental school Hard?
The dental school admissions process is competitive and growing more difficult every year. While the number of dental schools is consistently increasing, so too are the average GPAs and DAT scores of successful applicants.
Is dentistry in high demand?
Overall employment of dentists is projected to grow 8 percent from 2020 to 2030, about as fast as the average for all occupations. About 5,000 openings for dentists are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
What strand is dentistry belong?
Under the STEM STRAND, you can become a pilot, an architect, an astrophysicist, a biologist, a chemist, an engineer, a dentist, a nutritionist, a nurse, a doctor, and a lot more.
What do you study in college to become a dentist?
Chemistry, biology and either maths or physics (or both) will keep all dentistry courses open to you. If you don't take maths or physics but do take chemistry and biology, most courses will accept you. If you only take one from chemistry or biology, fewer dentistry courses will accept you.
How long is dentistry course?
The Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) is a four-year graduate degree program designed to prepare students for becoming a Registered Dentist in the Philippines. It aims to develop skills and technical principles of different dental procedures as well as in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of oral diseases.
What majors do dental schools accept?
Generally, they want courses in biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, and physics – all with attached labs.
What do dental schools look for in a student?
They can include. Work or volunteer work in a healthcare or dental setting. Dental workshops. Dental research activities. Pre-dental clubs. Advanced science courses.
What are the best dental schools?
What are Dental Schools Looking For? 1 Work or volunteer work in a healthcare or dental setting 2 Dental workshops 3 Dental research activities 4 Pre-dental clubs 5 Advanced science courses#N#Although not necessarily required, they can be helpful in dental school
Is dental school required?
Although not necessarily required, they can be helpful in dental school. Enrolling in dental school is a lengthy process and requires interviews, tests, and more applications. Be sure to talk to your guidance counselor and dental school of choice for assistance.
6 crucial factors when determining your choice for dental school
With so many choices of dental schools, it can be difficult to know if the four universities you choose are the best match for you. There maybe lots of questions running through your mind, do I choose a lecture based course or PBL, shall I live near home, should I choose a university that doesn’t need the BMAT.
University Open Days
In addition to the above factors, the University open days can really help with determining your choice. These days are a great way to meet current students, view the dental facilities, experience the campus and have a glimpse of the city.
Your Choices
Applications are submitted via Universities and Colleges Admission Service (UCAS), details of which can be found at www.ucas.com.
Why do people change dentists?
Futuredontics found 46% of survey respondents said they would leave a dental practice if the quality of care was too low . Quality work makes it less likely you’ll have to return quickly because of procedures done improperly. Without meeting dentists personally, one way you can estimate their work quality is through their professional qualifications.
What are the different types of dental care?
Depending on your dental needs, it might be useful to ask if the dentist specializes in any areas, such as: 1 Orthodontics (treating misaligned teeth) 2 Periodontics (gum care) 3 Endodontics (root canal therapy) 4 Pediatric Dentistry (youth dental care) 5 Prosthodontics (fixing broken or missing teeth) 6 Oral/Maxillofacial Surgery (surgery of the face, mouth, and jaw)
What are some examples of dental anxiety?
Dental anxiety is common to the point that many practices offer a variety of services catered towards patient comfort. Pre medication and nitrous oxide are fairly obvious examples, but some practices go so far as to offer headphones, massage, aromatherapy and more to help put patients at ease.
What is referred to a general dentist?
3. Referrals. General dentists may refer complex restorative or cosmetic cases to colleagues if they are not equipped to provide certain treatments. If you are not concerned with a scenario in which you are referred to another dentist for treatment, you should inquire as to the specifics of the referral process. 4.
What to consider when choosing a dentist?
Here are eight things to consider when choosing a dentist: 1. Training. Research the extent of training and clinical experience that a prospective dentist has , particularly with regard to specialty procedures. For example, not all dentists are trained in performing the full array of cosmetic or restorative procedures and may in fact refer certain ...
Do dentists keep pictures of past patients?
Most dentists keep a gallery of past patients that includes pictures of their teeth before and after treatment. This can be extremely helpful when evaluating the quality of work you can expect with a dentist. If your needs are cosmetic, it can be even more helpful when evaluating all your cosmetic options, including teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, etc.
Is dental anxiety common?
Dental anxiety is common to the point that many practices offer a variety of services catered towards patient comfort. Pre medication and nitrous oxide are fairly obvious examples, but some practices go so far as to offer headphones, massage, aromatherapy and more to help put patients at ease.
Can a general dentist refer a case to another dentist?
General dentists may refer complex restorative or cosmetic cases to colleagues if they are not equipped to provide certain treatments. If you are not concerned with a scenario in which you are referred to another dentist for treatment, you should inquire as to the specifics of the referral process.
Do all dentists offer the same services?
Not all dentists or practices offer the same services. If you are looking for a specific treatment or product brand, it is imperative that you inquire as to whether a given practice caters to it. For example, you may have seen advertising for Invisalign and are interested in that procedure.
1. Think about what inspired you to choose dentistry
Consider several factors that helped you decide on your career path. Factors like helping others learn about their oral health and providing compassionate care show the interviewer your passion and empathy.
2. Highlight your strengths
Discuss the strengths that support your success as a dentist. For example, hard skills like technology proficiency, dental equipment operation and specialized skills in different fields of dentistry showcase your capabilities in the career. Your soft skills are also important to discuss.
3. Relate your skills to the job requirements
When highlighting your strengths, it's also essential you connect these skills to the job requirements. For instance, when discussing technology use, connect your proficiency to the employer's requirements for managing records, budgeting and organizing dental supplies.
4. Explain what engages you in your work
Another effective approach to answering interview questions about your career choice is to describe what motivates you. Consider your favorite aspects of the career, such as helping others, providing oral health education or working in complex dentistry fields.
5. Be genuine in your response
When answering this interview question, be honest in your response. Give genuine reasons for pursuing your career field and convey your interest in and curiosity about dentistry, including innovation and advancements.
Example 1
"I've been interested in a career in the health care field since I was a senior in high school, and then developed my passion for helping others learn about their oral health when I got into college.
Example 2
"Research in dentistry is something I have been pursuing, as I'm interested in the advancements others are developing in the practice. Before moving here, I helped form and lead a small research team, which supported my development in leadership and research and analysis.
What does a dentist do?
Dentists examine, diagnose, and treat diseases, injuries, and malformations of teeth and gums. May treat diseases of nerve, pulp, and other dental tissues affecting oral hygiene and retention of teeth. May fit dental appliances or provide preventive care. .
How do dentists work?
Here is what a typical day’s work for a Dentist looks like: 1 Use masks, gloves, and safety glasses to protect patients and self from infectious diseases. 2 Examine teeth, gums, and related tissues, using dental instruments, x-rays, or other diagnostic equipment, to evaluate dental health, diagnose diseases or abnormalities, and plan appropriate treatments. 3 Administer anesthetics to limit the amount of pain experienced by patients during procedures. 4 Use dental air turbines, hand instruments, dental appliances, or surgical implements. 5 Formulate plan of treatment for patient’s teeth and mouth tissue.
What is the best way to protect yourself from infectious diseases?
Use masks, gloves, and safety glasses to protect patients and self from infectious diseases. Examine teeth, gums, and related tissues, using dental instruments, x-rays, or other diagnostic equipment, to evaluate dental health, diagnose diseases or abnormalities, and plan appropriate treatments.
Start with the Basics
Regular visits are key to a healthy smile, so start with the details that work best with your lifestyle and dental care needs. Some things to consider include:
Launch the Search
Now that you’re looking for a dentist, you’re probably noticing advertisements online, in the newspaper and even in your mailbox. Social media sites may also have patient reviews of dentists near you, but remember that every person’s dental health needs and experiences are their own.
Meet and Greet
To find the right dentist, don’t be shy about calling or visiting the dentists on your list before deciding. “Schedule consultation time with the dentist to meet with the dentist and staff before making an appointment,” Dr. Taylor-Osborne says.
Pick a Partner
Above all, you want to choose a dentist who can be a part of your total health care team. “So much of your dental health can impact your overall health,” Dr. Taylor-Osborne says. “Look for someone who can be a coach to motivate you, a trusted advisor to turn to when health issues arise and a partner to make dental care decisions with.”
