Dentist
Dentists diagnose and treat problems with patients' teeth, gums, and related parts of the mouth. They provide preventive care, perform restorative procedures, and may specialize in areas like orthodontics, oral surgery, or pediatric dentistry. The BLS reports a median salary of $160,370 with 4% projected growth. A Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree and state licensure are required, representing 8+ years of post-secondary education.
A Day in the Life
A typical day starts by reviewing the patient schedule and checking X-rays from the previous day. The morning involves performing cleanings, examinations, and a root canal procedure. After a lunch break, the dentist fits a patient for a crown, consults with an orthodontist about a complex case, and sees an emergency patient with a cracked tooth. The afternoon ends with reviewing the practice's financials and mentoring a dental hygienist student.
Key Stats
Education
Doctoral Degree
Salary Range
Entry: $100,000
Median: $160,370
Senior: $250,000
Job Growth