How To Get A Job As A Dentist
The demand for qualified Dentists is increasing rapidly, due to advanced dental techniques, an aging population, the growing emphasis on the value of preventive care, and the increasing provision of dental insurance. Dentists require considerable specialized education but are very well paid for their work.
Most dentists work in private practice or partnerships, though some work in the armed forces, hospitals and other public facilities. Dentists work in clean well-lit surroundings. Most work a regular forty hour work week or less, though some provide evening or weekend services to meet the needs of their patients.
To be successful, dentist must have superior manual dexterity, excellent people skills, good diagnostic skills, patience, and the ability to remain totally focused on the task at hand. They must have good eye-hand coordination, good memory, and a good eye for color, shape, and spacing.
Dentists wear protective masks, goggles, and gloves to protect themselves and their patients from the possibility of infection and disease.
Dentists are dedicated to caring for the teeth, gums, and mouths of their patients. They conduct a complete examination of the mouth, take and read x-rays, anesthetize patient mouths, remove tooth decay, do fillings, extractions, root canals, bridges, and crowns. They may seal teeth against decay, explain dental procedures to patients, and advise on preventive care and dental hygiene. They write prescriptions for antibiotics or pain, and refer patients to specialists, as needed. They may also supervise office staff, meet suppliers, order office supplies, and if in private practice, perform office duties. Some Dentists specialize in such things as dental implants, surgery, dental diseases, or public health.
Education
Potential Dentists must first obtain a high school diploma. High school courses that are useful include English, chemistry, physics, health, biology, and mathematics.
Before applying to a dental school, candidates must get some college education in sciences. Although two or three years of college may be acceptable, most candidates take a full four year Bachelor’s degree. Some colleges offer pre-dental training as part of a science major.
Candidates are then required to pass a Dental Admissions Test. This test takes about four hours and covers such material as comprehension, natural science, perceptual ability and quantitative reasoning.
Candidates must next apply for entrance to a Dental School to obtain their DDS, Doctor Of Dental Surgery. Competition for entry in these schools is keen, so academic excellence is vital.
Entrance to Dental Schools depends on three things; the grade point average, especially in sciences, the Dental Admissions Test score, and letters of recommendation from educational institutions or professionals in the dental field.
Programs in Dental Schools last four years. The first part of the training covers academic and related lab work. It includes such subjects as dental anatomy, dental anesthesiology, and dental techniques. The last two years is dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of real patients in clinics under the supervision of licensed Dentists.
Dentists must have a license to practice. To obtain a license, candidates must first graduate from an accredited training program and then pass the National Board Dental exam. Many states have additional licensing requirements so make sure you understand fully the requirements of the state in which you wish to practice.
With experience and further education, dentist may advance to positions in dental specializations, education, and research.
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