High School Students - Careers In Dentistry: 
Is Dentistry For You?

Dentistry is a satisfying and attractive career with much to offer. The information listed here is only a small part of the resources available to help you decide if dentistry is for you. The American Dental Association has an extensive web site with lots of information about careers in dentistry and dental related careers at www.ada.org. The information below and much more can be found at that site. It is a good place to begin to learn about dental careers.

Dentists help individuals, not just teeth

We all know that there are human beings connected to the mouths and teeth that dentists treat. Dentists must know how to communicate with and relate to a diverse group of people. To be happy and successful, a dentist needs to be able to communicate well and to enjoy working with others.

Esthetics

Dentists improve people's appearance by improving the esthetics of their smile. A dentist must have some artistic ability as well as a sound background in the sciences. 

Independence

Dentistry allows you to be your own boss and to manage your own business, if you choose to. This is important to many who are attracted to a career in dentistry. Dentists can balance the needs of their personal and professional lives to meet their own career and personal goals in life while still helping others.

Service to Others

Dentists provide essential health care services in their community and are the beneficiaries of the respect and satisfaction this brings. Many individuals want to know that their efforts in their profession lead to improved conditions for mankind. Dentistry provides that satisfaction.

Security

The average income of dentists is in the highest 8% of US family income and the demand for dental care is projected to continue to grow. Increasing numbers of older people are keeping their teeth and are aware of the need for regular dental care to maintain their oral health.

 Excellent Manual Dexterity

The typical dentist performs delicate procedures in the mouth often measured in fractions of a millimeter. Good fine motor control and manual dexterity is essential to be able to perform these tasks.