A healthcare professional who diagnoses and treats diseases and conditions of the teeth, gums, and oral cavity.
What dentists do
Dentists examine teeth and gums, take and interpret x-rays, fill cavities, extract teeth, place crowns and bridges, and counsel patients on oral hygiene. Many run independent practices, employing hygienists and assistants while overseeing clinical and business operations.
Training path
US dentists complete a bachelor’s degree before four years of dental school, earning a DDS or DMD degree. State licensure requires passing written and clinical examinations. Specialty training such as orthodontics or oral surgery adds two to six years.
Specializations
Recognized specialties include orthodontics, endodontics, periodontics, prosthodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgery, pediatric dentistry, and oral pathology. General dentists handle a broad range of routine and preventive care.
Find more professions by letter
Dentist starts with D and ends with T. Browse other professions along the same letter.
Professions that contain a letter from "Dentist":