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How to Decide if a Career in Dentistry is Right for You

Posted in Articles, Dental Assistant, Dental Hygienist.

Have you ever considered a career in dentistry? Are you unsure of whether or not you have the right personality and temperament for the job?

The availability of dental careers in Canada is increasing rapidly. But, dental careers are definitely a better fit for some people than others.

If you’re considering a dental career, keep reading.

Explained below are some tips that will help you decide whether this type of career is a good fit for you.

Types of Dentistry Careers

You might assume that working as a dentist is the only dental career out there. That’s definitely not the case, though.

There are many other high-paying dental fields that you can choose from. Not interested in being a dentist? Consider working as a dental hygienist or dental assistant, instead.

You could also work as a dental lab technician or go on to specialise as a periodontist or orthodontist. The possibilities are endless.

Is Dentistry Right for You?

So, how do you decide whether or not you’re qualified for a dental career? Start by asking yourself the following factors:

Do You Enjoy Helping Others?

Nearly all dental careers are service-oriented careers. This is especially true of dental hygiene and dental assisting, which require a lot of patient interaction.

Do You Want Job Stability?

If you’re like most people, the answer to this question is a resounding “yes.” Dental careers are incredibly stable, and lots of job growth is expected in the coming years.

Do You Want a High Income?

Dental careers are very lucrative. Even if you don’t work as a dentist, you can still earn plenty of money as an assistant or dental hygienist.

Dental assistants earn, on average, a little over $40,000 per year. Dental hygienists earn, on average, around $70,000 per year.

Can You Handle the Emotional Demands of the Job?

As with any career, there is some stress associated with a career in dentistry. You will, at times, have to work with anxious or unhappy patients. And, you may find that busy days with back-to-back patients are quite draining. 

A dental career isn’t necessarily easy, but most people find that the reward of helping people feel healthier and more confident is totally worth it.

Do You Want More Work-Life Balance?

Dental careers may be stressful at times. But, they also allow for a great work-life balance.

In most cases, you’ll be able to enjoy weekends and evenings at home with your family or spending time with your friends.

Are You Willing to Pursue Additional Education?

If you want to pursue a career in dentistry, you’ll need additional education.

Don’t want to put in the 7-8 years of additional education required to be a dentist?

A career in dental hygiene requires a little less than two years of schooling, and a career as a dental assistant requires a little less than one year of schooling.

Learn More About Dental School Today

Do you think you would do well with a career in dentistry? If so, consider coming to study with us at Southern Ontario Dental College.

We offer top-notch dental hygiene and dental assisting programs, as well as continuing education opportunities. 

Contact us today to request free information about our programs to see if they are a good fit for you.

SODC is NOW accepting Dental Assisting applications for 2024. View Programs