“I was attracted to dentistry as a way to use my intellectual abilities as well as my good hand-eye coordination to help people”

How much money can you make?

What type of training will it take?

And what does the job actually entail?

Read on to find out whether this is the job for you

What will I be doing all day?

A dentist is a health care provider who specializes in oral health. Dentists diagnose and treat conditions related to the teeth and gums, as well as provide preventative care. Their responsibilities can include: performing and reading X-rays and other diagnostic tests, identifying dental problems, filling cavities, administering anesthetics, performing regular checkups and teeth cleanings, and educating patients about oral health.

What kind of career options do I have?

While the majority of dentists work in private practices, either as owners of practices or as employees, dentists may also pursue other career options, such as academic dentistry, research, working for the federal government as military dentists, or in the public health field setting dental policies.

A dentist can choose to practice general dentistry, or complete an additional two to three years of training to specialize in one of several areas.  Dentistry specialties include: periodontist, prosthodontist, endodontist, orthodontist, oral/maxillofacial surgeon, and dental anesthesiologist.

Do I have the personality for it?

A dentist must have excellent communication and people skills, be empathetic, and be someone who inspires trust. He or she must also have strong fine-motor skills and good problem-solving abilities.

What kind of training do I need?

In order to become a licensed dentist, one must graduate from an accredited dental school (generally a four-year program) and pass a state licensing exam. To be accepted to dental school (which has a highly competitive admissions process), one must complete a bachelor’s degree (although exceptions may sometimes be made) and take the Dental Admission Test (DAT).

What can I expect to make?

Average national salary: $219,000

Starting salary can typically be $150,000–$200,000 (depending on geographic location and specialty), and dentists’ salaries tend to range from $150,000 to $350,000.

The growth potential for a private practice owner is great, with the potential to earn well over $1 million.