Do you find yourself interested in dentistry? Maybe you’re the only person you know of who actually doesn’t mind a trip to the dentist! In fact, you may even start thinking that you wouldn’t mind cleaning people’s teeth and checking for cavities on a daily basis. Perhaps a career in dental hygiene is for you!
Education
According to The College Board, most dentists attend four years of dental school after earning a bachelor’s degree. If you would like to be a specialist, additional years of training are necessary. While you’re still in high school, it’s important to focus on math and science courses as well as classes that will enhance your communication skills. Knowing a foreign language will also prove to be helpful so that you will be able to speak with more patients.
What to know before you apply
When diving into the college search, students interested in dentistry should be sure that they have completed the required courses needed for admission. If you’re completing an associate’s degree and plan to move on to a four-year program, be sure that your credits will definitely transfer . In order to test for your state license, it is necessary that the program also be accredited by the American Dental Association. You will want to be sure that there are dentist offices or clinics nearby so that you can get hands-on internship experience while you attend college.
Salary
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, dentists earned a yearly salary of $161,750 in 2011. Earnings will vary based on location, specialty, and years of experience.
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