What Dentists DoExamine, 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.
- 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.
- Administer anesthetics to limit the amount of pain experienced by patients during procedures.
- Use dental air turbines, hand instruments, dental appliances, or surgical implements.
- Formulate plan of treatment for patient's teeth and mouth tissue.
Dentists Education, Salary, and GrowthOnly you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.
Minimum EducationDoctoral or Professional Degree
Career ProspectsGood (Increasing by 1-5%)
Training TimeOver 4 years
Job Openings3,900 Annually
Median Earnings
$178,540 in California
$172,790 Nationally
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Is This Career Right For You?
YOU Like
- Relating with or serving others
- Thinking and problem solving
- Working with my hands
you value
- Accomplishing things
- Having freedom
- Personal relationships
you are skilled in
- Active Learning
- Active Listening
- Critical Thinking
- Speaking
- Reading Comprehension
Go Deeper: Dentists Explained
DentistExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.
How Do You Train for This Career?
Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.
Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 4-5+ years
find training near you
Find local programs, apprenticeships, or degrees to start your path.
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What Is the Healthcare Industry?
HealthcareThe primary activities of this group involve delivering medical care and support to patients, including diagnosing illness, treating injuries, administering medication, assisting with daily living activities, and completing corresponding administrative tasks.