Dentist

Salary range:

$79,660 – $127,430

Minimum training

Doctorate; state-issued license required

Job description:

Dentists diagnose, prevent and treat teeth and mouth tissue problems. They remove decay, fill cavities, examine X-rays and repair fractured teeth. They also perform corrective surgery on gums, extract teeth and make models and measurements for dentures. Dentists provide instruction on dental care, administer anesthetics and write prescriptions for medications.

Work environment:

Dentists work in dental offices and are "solo practitioners," meaning they own their own businesses and work alone or with a small staff. Some dentists have partners, and a few work for other dentists as associate dentists.

Training requirements:

Dentists are required to earn a doctorate. They are licensed by the State of California Dental Board.

Scholarships for this job

Other related jobs:

• Dental Assistant

  Salary range: $25,401 – $39,775 Minimum training:1-year training program Job description:A dental assistant performs a variety of patient care, office and laboratory duties in dental offices. +More

• Dental Hygienist

  Salary range: $60,654 – $93,475 Minimum training:2-year degree; state-issued license required Job description:A dental hygienist cleans teeth, examines patients for signs of oral disease and provides other preventative dental care. +More

• Dental Laboratory Technician

  Salary range: $25,897 – $46,835 Minimum training:2-year program Job description:Dental laboratory technicians construct and repair dental appliances such as crowns, bridges, dentures and orthodontic appliances. +More

• Physician

  Salary range: $102,333 and up Minimum training:Doctorate; 4-year residency; state-issued license required Job description:Physicians diagnose illnesses, prescribe and administer treatment for injury or disease, and counsel patients on preventative health care. +More