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Careers/Dental

Dental Careers

General dentistry, oral surgery, orthodontics, dental hygiene — the full dental field.

Dental careers range from chairside hygienists and assistants through general dentists to highly specialized oral surgeons and orthodontists. Each rung has its own training pathway, equipment, and earning ceiling.

6 careers in this collection

Dentistry rewards both technical skill and the bedside manner needed for anxious patients. Compare the dental paths below by typical training length, scope of practice, and salary range.
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Dentists, All Other Specialists

All dentists not listed separately.

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Dentist

Restore and protect oral health through prevention, diagnosis, and treatment

$166,300 median
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Dental Hygienists

Administer oral hygiene care to patients.

$87,530 median
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Dental Laboratory Technicians

Construct and repair full or partial dentures or dental appliances.

$47,690 median
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Dental Assistant

Support dentists with patient care and office tasks

$46,540 median
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Dental Assistants

Perform limited clinical duties under the direction of a dentist.

$46,540 median

Median annual wage figures are from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2023, for the occupation each career is classified under. Careers with no published federal figure show none.

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