Health Professions

Dentistry

Florida Dentistry Programs

What is a Dentist?

A general dental practitioners’ (GDP) main area of focus is the oral cavity. They clean and work with patients’ teeth and surrounding tissues to maintain a healthy mouth and identify if there is a problem. They are able to clean teeth, fill cavities, fix damaged teeth, prescribe medications, and manage dental instruments along with other duties. They typically oversee health professionals such as dental hygienists, dental assistants, laboratory technicians, and receptionists.

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What areas can dentists work in?

The majority of dentists work in offices of Dentist, either in their own private practice or as partners with other dentists. Other common workplaces are in physician offices, outpatient care centers, hospitals, or in government positions.

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How much do they make on average?

Salaries for dentists depend on specialty, location, and experience. Specialized dentists, like orthodontists or oral surgeons have the potential to make more than a general dentist. The median annual salary for dentists is about $154,000 Salaries range from approximately $70,000 to $187,000.

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What does the future hold for dentists?

Employment for dentists is expected to grow about 18% in the next 10 years or so. This increase is due to the increasing aging population that will need increased dental care as they get older. Access to healthcare continues to grow giving more people the opportunity to visit the dentist for necessary care. Cosmetic dental work is becoming increasingly popular as well, which is expected to increase demand for dentists as technology improves treatments.

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What specialties can dentists work within?

The majority of practicing dentists work as general practitioners there are 9 other specialty paths that dentists may choose :

  • Dental public health specialist – educate on dental health in specific communities
  • Endodontist- perform root-canal procedures on injured teeth
  • Oral and maxillofacial radiologists – use imaging technology to diagnose diseases around the cephalic region
  • Oral and maxillofacial surgeons – perform surgeries and procedures near the oral cavity such as wisdom teeth removal
  • Oral pathologists – diagnose oral conditions or diseases such as ulcers or cancer
  • Orthodontists – responsible for straightening uneven teeth with braces or other tools
  • Pediatric dentists – specialize in child and special-needs population
  • Periodontists – specialize in gums and bone in oral cavity
  • Prosthodontists – replace damaged or missing teeth with appliances such as crowns or dentures

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