How to Become a Dentist

Dentistry is a field that involves caring for people's teeth, gums and related areas of the body. This is a rewarding profession that offers career satisfaction and the opportunity to help your community.

A dentist's duties are to perform clinical procedures such as examinations, fillings, crowns, implants, extractions and corrective surgeries; identify, diagnose and treat oral conditions; and teach patients how to maintain their teeth and gums. A dentist also conducts research to find new materials, techniques and technologies that will improve the quality of dental care for patients.

Dentists must have a thorough understanding of human anatomy and dental diseases. They also need to be trained to use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques.

The most common training for dentists is at a dental school, where they complete an undergraduate degree and earn a doctor of dental surgery (DDS) or doctor of dental medicine (DMD). Many dentists continue to pursue advanced education and training to become certified in one of nine dental specialties.

Some dental schools have extensive affiliated clinics and research facilities that provide students with hands-on experiences in the field. For example, the University of Michigan's Ann Arbor campus has a wide network of clinics that offer students a variety of research opportunities and clinical experiences.

During the first two years of dental school, students must complete such biomedical science courses as anatomy, biochemistry, physiology and pathology. During their second year, they focus on clinical practice, diagnosing and treating oral disease.

In addition, many dentists undergo continuing professional development (CPD) to ensure their knowledge of latest advances in dental technology and medicine. This may include attending conferences, workshops and lectures.

The skills needed to become a dentist include a comprehensive understanding of medical and dental principles, a strong commitment to learning, and the ability to work independently as well as within a team. These skills will be especially important if you choose to own your own practice and direct staff.

Patient care: Being able to communicate effectively with patients and understand their needs is essential for dentists. They need to be able to explain treatments and procedures clearly to help ease their anxiety and to educate them on preventative care and their diagnosis.

Interpersonal skills: Being able to work as part of a team is crucial for dental professionals, as they often lead and supervise support personnel, such as hygienists and assistants. They also need to be able to show empathy and respect for the emotional, social and cultural needs of patients.

Leadership: Dentists must be able to motivate and inspire their team to achieve goals. They also need to be able to make decisions about how their practice operates and what services they provide.

Dental offices are staffed with a number of different staff members, including dental assistants, dental hygienists and technicians. These individuals often have to perform tasks such as filing papers and scheduling appointments. These employees are responsible for assisting the dentist with the day-to-day duties of a dental office. They also have a key role in coordinating and implementing new marketing campaigns for the dental practice, ensuring that they communicate effectively with their clients and potential clients and managing their time efficiently.

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