have a high school diploma or GED;
complete at least two years of college;
take science courses in college;
graduate from dental school - most students need four years to complete dental school. Most dental schools award a Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) degree. You take courses in anatomy, microbiology, and physiology.
pass a state exam to get a license;
have strong interpersonal skills; and
be self-motivated
May work 40 hours a week. Some work more, especially dentists starting new practices.
May work evenings and weekends to meet patients' needs.
May work part time or full time. Some continue to work part time past the usual retirement age.
DENTISTS will:
Handle a wide variety of dental problems
About nine in ten are in private practice
Many are part of group practices
Wear uniforms or lab jackets as well as safety gear
May work days, evenings, and weekends
Need about eight years of study and training after high school
DENTISTS frequently:
Write prescriptions for drugs that reduce pain or the risk of infection.
Use hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.
Repeat the same movements.
Stand and sit throughout the day.
Bend or twist their body.
It is important that DENTISTS be able to:
Fill cavities, pull teeth, and try to prevent dental disease.
Use fingers or hands to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects.
Understand the speech of another person.
See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.
Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand steady while moving the arm.
Make quick, precise adjustments to machine controls.
