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Dentist
Dentists diagnose and treat teeth and gum problems. They instruct patients about brushing, flossing, using fluoride, and diet to prevent dental problems. Dentists remove decay, fill cavities, examine x-rays, straighten teeth, place protective plastic sealants on teeth, and repair fractured teeth. Dentists treat gum disease by performing surgery. They also administer anesthetics and write prescriptions. Dentists also sometimes design dentures.
Dentists use scalpels, brushes, forceps, probes, mouth mirrors, and x-ray machines while at the same time protecting patients from infections.
Dentists running their own business are also responsible for office administrative duties. They also supervise their staff from dental hygienists, assistants, laboratory technicians, and receptionists.
There are nine dental specialists. Orthodontists straighten teeth by using braces or retainers. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons perform mouth and jaw surgery. Pediatric dentists specialize in treating children. Periodontists specialize in the gums and bones around the teeth. Prosthodontists use crowns, bridges, and dentures to replace missing teeth. Endodontists specialize in root canals. Public health dentists specialize in treating and preventing community health problems. Oral pathologists conduct research on oral diseases, and oral and maxillofacial radiologists use imaging technologies to diagnose head and neck problems.
Work environment. Most dentists run their own practices. Some dentists work in partnerships or dentist associations.
Most dentists work 4-5 day weeks. Some work evenings and weekends to accommodate their patients. The number of hours worked varies greatly among dentists. The majority of dentists spend 35-40 hours working a week. Dentists trying to set up a new practice usually work long hours. Many dentists continue to work part-time after they retire.
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