I’m sure you’ve been to the dentist before, but do you know what they do besides just cleaning your teeth and checking for cavities? Welcome to the wonderful world of being a dentist! If you were ever interested or want to know more about dentistry, this is for you.
A dentist is a healthcare professional who diagnoses, treats, and prevents diseases of the teeth, gums, and the mouth. They also educate patients on proper hygiene. Throughout the day they perform thorough cleanings, remove plaque and tartar, and examine patients’ oral health. They execute routine check-ups, cleanings, X-rays, fill cavities, and perform procedures like root canals, crowns, and tooth extractions to improve oral health.
Some pros of the career are the high income and stability, as well as work-life balance and flexibility. There are options to work part-time, own a practice, or work for a corporation allowing for flexible scheduling. On the other hand, some cons are the debt from 8 years of training, and sometimes negative patient interactions. Some patients are unpleasant, anxious, or difficult to deal with which could be draining for some people.
Becoming a dentist is very hard, requiring at least eight years of rigorous education including 4 years to get a bachelor’s, then another 4 years of dental school. A starting dentist in the U.S. typically earns around $123,000 – $150,000 in their first year. However, the average dentist here in Renton, Washington makes around $235,000 a year.
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