People who choose to pursue a career in dentistry have the opportunity to restore oral health and transform the lives of their patients. With a range of professional options available, dentists can shape the future of oral health care. Most people don't look forward to visiting the dentist, and it's estimated that 9-15% of people avoid going due to dental anxiety and fear. However, dentists have the flexibility to set up an office in a community that lacks sufficient dental care if they have trouble finding work in an area with many offices.
Additionally, as current dentists retire, there are opportunities to find positions at existing centers. The American Dental Association suggests that having a mentor and investing in continuing education can further improve salary potential. Dentists can specialize in a variety of areas, such as cosmetic procedures to transform the appearance of a patient's mouth or oral and maxillofacial pathology, which involves researching and managing diseases affecting the head, neck, face and jaw. No matter what path you choose, a career in dentistry provides the opportunity to make a difference in people's lives while also enjoying professional success.