DENTIST

What does a dentist do?

Dentists play a critical role in people’s oral health, which is closely tied to their overall health. Dentists diagnose and treat diseases and malformations within the mouth. Dentists perform surgery, such as extracting teeth, placing implants and grafting tissue. They have the power not only to eliminate someone’s oral pain but to improve their overall appearance.

Dentists are also constantly learning and teaching. They perform research to improve oral health, take continuing education courses to stay on top of the latest treatment methods, teach members of their dental team, and educate patients on how to best care for their teeth and prevent oral disease.

You can also choose to specialize, focusing your care on children, orthodontics, oral surgery, and much more.

Why choose a career in dentistry?

You’ll get to help people improve and maintain their health, appearance, and quality of life. Dentistry offers a chance to create a balanced lifestyle. You’ll also be able to put your artistic and scientific talents to work as you find innovative solutions for your patients+.

Many dentists balance their time between clinician and nonclinical. You’ll have the opportunity time to lecture, teach, and write for dental publications. You can take part in research projects or participate in scientific councils.

Dentists are seen as leaders in their communities and there are leadership roles available within organized dentistry.

You’ll also have choices when it comes to how you want to work. You might want to buy an existing dental practice or start your own. If being the boss isn’t your thing, there are many options available to you.

What type of person makes a good dentist?

Someone who is:

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A good listener

You’ll need to listen closely to what your patients are telling you and be able to ask questions that will help you find a solution to their problems.

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Patient

Some people are afraid of visiting the dentist. You’ll need to be compassionate and understanding, as well as tolerant.

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A critical thinker

You’ll need to consider various solutions and identify the pros and cons of each, keeping in mind not only the effectiveness of various solutions but the cost.

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Persuasive

Once you’ve identified solutions for your patients, you’re going to have to convince them to agree to the treatment plan and perhaps, change some of their behaviors.

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A stickler for details

Even the smallest of details matter in oral healthcare

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Flexible and resilient.

It almost goes without saying that dexterity is critical when you’re working in a space as small as the mouth. The slightest movement can make a difference.

WHERE WOULD YOU WORK

HOW MUCH CAN I MAKE?

HOW TO BECOME A DENTIST IN NORTH CAROLINA

DENTAL SCHOOLS IN NORTH CAROLINA

Where would you work?

You have lots of choices. Not only are dental hygienists in high demand, but there are a variety of settings where you can work, including:

Your own dental office, from small to large, whether you buy or build.
Public health/community clinics.
Military.
Dental clinics at a university.
Schools.
Prison facilities.
University research departments.
Classrooms.

How much can I make?

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average dental salary in NC varies widely based on whether you are a general practitioner or a specialist, an associate or a practice owner. Expect to make somewhere between $200,000 and more than $400,000 a year.

How to become a dentist in North Carolina

Earn a four-year undergraduate degree. While there is no required major, a strong foundation in science is necessary.
Graduate from an accredited dental school.
Pass two written exams. In NC, you must pass written exams, which are offered online, in infection control/sterilization, and North Carolina jurisprudence.
Pass a clinical exam – either the CITA Dental exam or the ADEX exam. In NC, the optional perio scaling portion of ADEX is required. The ADEX exam is administered by the Council on Interstate Testing Agencies (CITA) and the Commission on Dental Competency Assessments (CDCA).
Successfully complete a background check.
To learn more about licensing, visit the NC State Board of Dental Examiners.

Dental Schools in North Carolina

Learn more about becoming a dentist from the American Dental Association or the American Dental Education Association.