Everyone has to go to the dentist once in a while.
That’s why it’s such a stable career field if you’re looking for stability.
Plus, many dental careers pay better than what’s available in other industries.
Here are a few of the best jobs in the dentistry field.
1. Dental Assistant
Assuming you’ve gone to school, becoming a dental assistant shouldn’t take long. They don’t have the same responsibilities as the actual dentist. But, they’re still vital at every dentist’s office.
Essentially, they’re responsible for assisting them whenever they’re working on patients. You may have to hand instruments to them. Or, you could find yourself handling room preparation prior to patient treatment.
All you need is a certificate from a dental assistant program. After enrolling, it’ll only take a few months to graduate, diploma in hand. Schools must have an accreditation from the Commission on Dental Accreditation, though. So, make sure yours has a valid accreditation before enrolling.
2. Dental Hygienist
Even though it sounds similar, a dental hygienist typically outearns dental assistants. They’re responsible for cleaning patients’ teeth and performing exams. While you’re in school, you’ll learn how to perform diagnostic procedures, too.
Often, dental hygienists have to polish their patients’ teeth. Removing plaque can improve their appearance and reduce the risk of infection. When patients need to have an x-ray, the dental hygienist usually handles it.
Some states even give them the right to remove stitches from their patients’ gums.
To become one, you’ll have to complete a program at an accredited university. There are 2-year and 4-year options, depending on where you go.
Today, most dental hygienists complete a bachelor’s degree in their chosen field.
3. Orthodontist
Becoming an orthodontist is a high-paying profession. That’s why orthodontics has seen such a rush of new professionals entering it. Since it has a high pay rate, many see it as a way to achieve financial security.
An orthodontist works with the bones of your mouth, often correcting crooked teeth. For example, if you had braces, an orthodontist put them on. Retainers are another example of something orthodontists usually handle.
Becoming the best orthodontist in NYC or your local area is slightly more involved than other careers. First, you have to complete a program at an accredited dental school. Then, you must go through another 3 years of schooling to earn an orthodontics certification. Finally, you must obtain a license in the state you’d like to practice.
4. Dentist
A dentist is one who treats most oral health concerns. They diagnose and treat the gums, teeth, and tongue. As a dentist, you’d spend the day examining patients and performing procedures. They’ve earned nearly $200,000 a year on average as of the latest census.
To become a dentist, you must complete a 4-year program at an accredited dental school. Only after obtaining your degree can you apply for a state license. Once you’ve received that, you can begin practicing on patients legally.
5. Oral Surgeon
Oral surgeons perform surgery on the hard and soft tissues of the oral cavity. Sometimes, they’re doing it to treat an infection. At other times, they have to perform cosmetic surgery on their patients.
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One of the most common procedures performed by oral surgeons is wisdom teeth removal. If a patient has to remove theirs, they schedule an appointment with an oral surgeon. Then, the surgeon puts them under anesthesia and removes their wisdom teeth.
You have to get a bachelor’s degree to become an oral surgeon. Once you’ve obtained one, it’s time to attend dental school. Residency follows that, and it lasts up to 6 years.
Generally, you’ll earn a medical degree while completing residency requirements. After residency, you have to get a license from the state where you’re practicing.
The Best Careers in Dentistry
Dentistry has way more career options than you’d think. If you’re looking for something different, it’s a great place to find opportunities.
Hopefully, the ideas we’ve given you will inspire some action. That’s the only thing that will make a difference in the long run.
But, anyone can make a living by building a career in dentistry. It’s just a matter of putting in the time to build one.
Image Credit: great career paths in dentistry by twenty20.com
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