Selecting The Right Dental Field

Written By Anica Oaks / Reviewed By Ray Spotts

When you first become a dental student, one of the many factors you’ll have to consider when choosing your career path will be how much money you can make from dentistry - specifically, which type of dentist you want to be. As you complete dental school, you’ll learn more about your interests as you explore various fields of dentistry.

Read on for four ways to choose which field better fits your financial and professional needs.

Cosmetic Dentistry

The field of cosmetic dentistry is for those who want to make a career out of making their patients feel confident about themselves. Common cosmetic dentistry procedures include porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, crowns, and more.

Many dental schools offer a certificate or an associate’s degree in general dentistry, allowing students to complete all of their classes in two years. If you’re interested in cosmetic dentistry, you can choose to either work as an assistant or apply to a two-year program offered by many community colleges that will give you more skills and allow you to work independently.

General Dentistry

Most people are familiar with general dentistry, also known as family dentistry. These dentists focus on oral hygiene for patients of all ages. General practitioners are trained to treat a wide range of dental issues, from broken teeth to periodontal disease. They're also able to perform regular checkups and cleanings, oral cancer screenings, fillings, and other restorative work.

Pediatric Dentistry

Want to work with children? While pediatric dentistry is a rewarding career choice, there are specific requirements you’ll need to meet. To practice pediatric dentistry, you’ll need a DDS degree from an accredited school of dentistry. You’ll also be required to pass two exams: The National Board Dental Examination (or NBDE) and The North American Council on Dental Certification (or NACDCE).

Additionally, pediatric dentists are required to obtain a state license in order to practice in many states. They must also participate in continuing education courses and board examinations throughout their careers in order to maintain their licenses and continue practicing.

Surgical Dentistry

Interested in becoming an oral surgeon? As an oral surgeon, you’ll be involved in a wide range of dental procedures, including corrective work and reconstructive surgery. You may also consider certain specialties, for example, you might treat gum disease or remove wisdom teeth. These procedures are usually performed with local anesthesia and sedation, though some surgeries may require general anesthesia as well.

There are many different specialties within the dental field, so it can be difficult to choose the right one for you. Keep this guide in mind as you consider all fields of dentistry and learn more about your interests.

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Written By:
Anica Oaks is a professional content and copywriter who graduated from the University of San Francisco. She loves dogs, the ocean, and anything outdoor-related. She was raised in a big family, so she's used to putting things to a vote. She recommends this office when it comes to general dentistry.

Reviewed By:    

Founder Ray Spotts has a passion for all things natural and has made a life study of nature as it relates to health and well-being. Ray became a forerunner bringing products to market that are extraordinarily effective and free from potentially harmful chemicals and additives. For this reason Ray formed Trusted Health Products, a company you can trust for clean, effective, and healthy products. Ray is an organic gardener, likes fishing, hiking, and teaching and mentoring people to start new businesses. You can get his book for free, “How To Succeed In Business Based On God’s Word,” at www.rayspotts.com.

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