10 Desirable Dentistry Jobs to Consider
In the year 2018, there were over 750,000 dentistry jobs, and that number includes jobs other than that of a dentist. Becoming part of the dental field doesn’t mean you have to spend several years of your life in school. In fact, you can become part of an oral care team in just a few years.
In this article, we discuss the different employment opportunities available in the dental health field. Continue reading to find out which career path is right for you.
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Oral Surgeon
Oral surgeons correct oral abnormalities resulting from birth defects, diseases, or injuries. They often carry out complex tooth extractions such as the extraction of wisdom teeth.
Another skill performed by oral surgeons is dental reconstruction. Dental reconstruction might be necessary for victims of car accidents. Essentially, an oral surgeon performs more specialized procedures that general dentists don’t perform.
Education: In order to become a surgeon in the dental field, you must complete college, dental school, and a 4-6 year surgical residency.
Average Salary: $293,100
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Endodontist
The oral care provided by an endodontist is specifically related to dental pain and disease. Specifically, they treat pain and disease that originate from the inside of the tooth, or in the tooth pulp.
To relieve pain and preserve teeth, an endodontist might perform a root canal. While a general dentist is able to perform this procedure as well, an endodontist specializes in these types of procedures and may be referred for more complicated issues.
Education: To take on an employment opportunity as an endodontist, you must complete college, dental school, a 2-3 year residency focused on diagnosing dental pain, and a Master of Science in Dentistry.
Average Salary: $230,263
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Periodontist
A periodontist is involved with both dental health and with issues pertaining to gums and jawbones. They often treat advanced conditions such as severe gum disease. A periodontist also addresses issues involving inflammation of the gums.
A common non-surgical procedure involves removing tartar from well below the gumline. Severe periodontitis may require a gum graft to cover an exposed tooth root, which can help slow or stop tooth decay and discomfort.
Education: The career path for a periodontist requires completion of college, dental school, and a residency program pertaining to issues involving the gums.
Average Salary: $203,914
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Orthodontist
An orthodontist is a dentist that specializes in treating abnormalities in the mouth, it is also considered one of the top dentistry jobs. They typically work to correct crooked teeth, misaligned jaws, and over/underbites affecting dental health.
With the help of x-rays and dental molds, they implant dental devices such as braces and retainers. Over time and with monitoring, these devices aesthetically improve teeth and ensure proper eating, chewing, and speaking.
Education: The career path for an orthodontist includes completing college, dental school, orthodontic school, and a 2-3 year orthodontic residency. The residency is especially important as dental schools don’t often provide in-depth courses on orthodontia.
Average Salary: $174,000
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General Dentist
Most oral care visits start with a trip to a general dentist. They have a general knowledge of dental health and can treat issues pertaining to gums and teeth. They perform oral exams, diagnostics, and minor procedures such as filling cavities and extracting teeth.
Education: The career path for a dentist involves completing college and dental school.
Average Salary: $155,600
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Dental Hygienist
Dentistry jobs such as that of a dental hygienist provide preventative dental care. They can perform exams and clean teeth for patients. They’re skilled in taking x-rays as well as polishing and removing tartar from teeth.
Education: The career path for a dental hygienist starts with obtaining a high school diploma or GED before obtaining a degree in dental hygiene from a college or university.
Average Salary: $76,148
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Dental Laboratory Technician
In the dental field, dental laboratory technicians create dental prosthetics such as dentures and crowns. This includes the complete creation process from pouring the mold to trimming it after it sets. They also adjust existing prosthetics as needed.
Education: To participate in oral care as a dental laboratory technician, you are required to complete high school as well as a 2-year dental technician training program.
Average Salary: $55,343
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Dental Assistant
A dental assistant is an employment opportunity for those who want to work closely with a dentist and dental procedures. This career path involves assisting with procedures, treatments, and exams under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist.
In this position, you might prepare equipment prior to a procedure, sterilize equipment following a procedure, and answer patient questions.
Education: Becoming a dental assistant requires completing high school and dental assistant training, which can take anywhere from 9-12 months.
Average Salary: $39,853
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Medical Biller
While a medical biller may not directly participate in oral care, they’re an important part of the dental field. They are responsible for calculating costs and collecting payments from patients.
Additionally, they prepare invoices and submit claims to insurance for payment. They must possess skills in attention to detail.
Education: To follow the career path of a medical biller, you must obtain a high school diploma as well as a college degree in a related field (in some states).
Average Salary: $37,011
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Medical Receptionist
A job as a medical receptionist is a great employment opportunity for someone who may be interested in the dental field and want to get their feet wet. They schedule appointments, help maintain patient records, and check patients in and out for their appointments.
Education: Most dental offices require their medical receptionist to possess a high school diploma or GED. Understanding medical terms and treatments are helpful as well.
Average Salary: $33,511
Find the Right Dentistry Jobs
Working in the dental field doesn’t mean you have to be a dentist. There are plenty of terrific dentistry jobs whether you’re looking to become a specialized surgeon or just want to get your foot in the door to see if you like it. Take the time to find the right one for you.
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