Are you interested in dentistry? If you’re just starting out your career, or if you’re looking for a change, dentistry may be the perfect field for you! In this blog post, we will discuss some of the steps that you need to take to start a career in dentistry. We’ll also talk about the different types of jobs available in the dental field. So if you’re ready to learn more about how to launch your career in dentistry, keep reading!
1. Get a Degree
The first step to taking your career in dentistry is to get a degree in dental hygiene or another related field. You can find programs at many community colleges and universities. Once you have your degree, you’ll need to pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) to become a licensed dental hygienist. Also, many states require dental hygienists to complete continuing education courses every year to maintain their licenses.
If you’re interested in becoming a dentist, you’ll need to complete four years of undergraduate study, followed by four years of dental school. You’ll also need to pass two exams, the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) and the State Board Dental Examination. After dental school, you may choose to complete a one- or two-year residency program.
Once you have your degree, you can start looking for jobs in the dental field! There are many different types of positions available, so you’re sure to find one that’s a good fit for your skills
2. You Can Become a Dental Assistant
Dental assistants are an important part of the dental team. They work closely with dentists and dental hygienists to provide patient care. Dental assistants typically have completed a one- or two-year training program, and they must pass a state exam to become licensed. If you’re interested in becoming a dental assistant, you have to enroll in a dental assistant program that is accredited. Once you have completed the program, you will need to pass state and national exams. After that, you will be a certified dental assistant and can start working in the field!
3. You Can Work as a Dental Hygienist
Dental hygienists clean teeth and provide other preventive dental care. They also educate patients on how to maintain good oral health. To become a dental hygienist, you need to complete an accredited dental hygiene program and pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE). Many states also require dental hygienists to complete continuing education courses every year to maintain their license. For example, the state of California requires dental hygienists to complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years.
4. You Can Become a Dentist
Dentists are responsible for diagnosing and treating oral health problems. They also provide preventive care and education to their patients. To become a dentist, you need to complete four years of undergraduate study, followed by four years of dental school. You’ll also need to pass two exams, the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) and the State Board Dental Examination. After dental school, you may choose to complete a one- or two-year residency program which will give you additional training in a specific area of dentistry, such as oral surgery or orthodontics. Also, many states require dentists to complete continuing education courses every year to maintain their licenses.
5. You Can Work in a Dental Lab
Dental laboratories make and repair dental prosthetics, such as crowns, bridges, and dentures. They also fabricate other dental appliances, such as mouthguards and night guards. To become a dental technician, you need to complete a two- or four-year training program. You’ll also need to pass a state or national exam to become certified. Also, many states require dental technicians to complete continuing education courses every year to maintain their certification.
6. You Can Become a Dental Sales Representative
Dental sales representatives sell dental products and supplies to dentists, dental offices, and other customers. To become a dental sales representative, you need to have at least a two-year degree. However, many employers prefer candidates who have a four-year degree. You’ll also need to complete on-the-job training. Once you start working in the field, you are going on sales calls, give presentations, and meeting with customers.
7. You Can Become a Dental Office Manager
Dental office managers are responsible for the administrative and business aspects of dental practices. To become a dental office manager, you need to have at least a two-year degree. However, many employers prefer candidates who have a four-year degree. You’ll also need to complete on-the-job training. Then you’ll be able to start your position which will include managing staff, handling finances, and marketing the dental practice.
8. You Can Become an Orthodontist
Orthodontists are dental specialists who diagnose and treat patients with malocclusions, which are misalignments of the teeth. To become an orthodontist, you first need to complete four years of undergraduate study, followed by four years of dental school. You’ll also need to complete a two- or three-year residency program in orthodontics. After completing your education and training, you’ll need to pass the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) examination to become certified.
Other Required Skills:
- Good communication skills
- Detail oriented
- Organized
- Leadership qualities
- Ability to multitask
- Customer service skills
- Basic computer skills
How To Start Your Own Dental Clinic
If you’re interested in starting your own dental clinic, there are a few things you need to do. First, you need to complete four years of undergraduate study, followed by four years of dental school. You’ll also need to pass two exams, the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) and the State Board Dental Examination. After dental school, you may choose to complete a one- or two-year residency program. Then, you’ll need to obtain a license to practice dentistry in your state. Finally, you’ll need to find a location for your dental clinic and hire staff. This includes dentists, dental hygienists, and dental office managers. So you will need to interview and hire employees. You’ll also need to purchase dental supplies and equipment. For example, you’ll need dental chairs, x-ray machines, and dental instruments. You may also want to consider purchasing a dental software system to help manage your practice.
If you’re interested in a career in dentistry, there are many different options available to you. You can become a dentist, dental hygienist, dental technician, dental sales representative, or dental office manager. You can also start your own dental clinic. Hopefully, this article has given you some ideas on how to kickstart your career in dentistry. Thanks for reading!
