Dentists, General

Dentists, General diagnose and treat problems with patients' teeth, gums, and related parts of the mouth. They provide advice and instruction on taking care of teeth and gums and on diet choices that affect oral health. Additionally, they remove tooth decay, fill cavities, examine X-rays, place protective sealants on children's teeth, straighten teeth, and repair fractured teeth.

Education / Training

To become a Dentist, General, individuals typically need to complete a bachelor's degree, followed by four years of dental school to earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. High school and college education are prerequisites for entering dental school; thus, completing high school and at least some college coursework is necessary to pursue this profession. Additionally, dentists must obtain a license by passing written and practical examinations after completing their dental education. Specialization may require further education and training. After completing the necessary educational requirements, aspiring Dentists, General usually undergo extensive clinical training during their dental school years. This training includes hands-on experience in treating patients under the supervision of licensed dentists and professors. Dentists learn various dental procedures, such as fillings, root canals, extractions, and preventive care techniques. Following graduation, many dentists choose to continue their training through residency programs to gain more specialized knowledge and skills in areas like orthodontics, periodontics, or oral surgery, depending on their career goals.