How familiar are you with your Teeth?
If you are interested in helping people have a lifetime of healthy teeth, a career in the dental field could be for you!
Skills Needed for the Dental Field
- Communication
- Patience
- A thorough and methodical approach
- Ability to work under pressure
- Manual dexterity
- Teamwork skills
- Strong and clear communication skills, with the ability to adapt your communication to suit different patients
“Teeth are always in style.” ~ Dr. Seuss
Careers in the Dental Field
General Dentists (DDS) provide a wide array of services for the oral health of their patients, focusing on preventing and stopping diseases through regular examinations. Dentists diagnose and treat patients. They provide cleanings and advanced treatments, such as bridgework, fitting for dentures, cavity fillings, and root canals.
Specializations in Dentistry
Orthodontists specialize in jaw alignment and teeth positioning. By using braces, their practices typically straighten and realign teeth. Orthodontists generally work with younger patients as their teeth are easier to move.
A periodontist is a specialized dentist who prevents, diagnoses, and treats periodontal disease.
An oral and maxillofacial surgeon performs surgical procedures on the mouth and jaw. Their procedures repair structural abnormalities or correct a patient’s jaw problem.
Dental hygienists work with the dentist to provide preventative oral care, cleaning patients' teeth and examining them for signs of damage and disease. Dental hygienists also teach patients, particularly young children, about the importance of maintaining good oral health.
Dental assistants provide hands-on help for the dentist. The dental assistant performs preparatory work such as sterilizing equipment, preparing and developing X-rays, and taking impressions/molds of patients’ teeth. Dental assistants may also schedule patient appointments and assist with other office tasks.
Dental laboratory technicians make dental prosthetics. These projects include bridges, crowns, and dentures. They do not perform direct patient care.
Let's Take a Closer Look at the Basic Knowledge and Skills Required for a Career in Dentistry
Explore the K12 Career Education Navigator
The K12 Career Technical Education (CTE) Navigator helps you explore high school courses and career pathways offered across San Bernardino and Riverside Counties. Browse by industry sector, county, school district, and more to find options that match your interests and career goals and see how these pathways can prepare you for college, certifications, apprenticeships, or the workforce.
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