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Overview

Dentists maintain their clients' teeth through such preventive and reparative practices as extracting, filling, cleaning, or replacing teeth. They perform corrective work, such as straightening teeth, and treat diseased tissue of the gums. They also perform surgical operations on the jaw or mouth, and make and fit false teeth. Approximately 155,000 general dentists, including 18,100 specialists, work in the United States.

Salary Range

$50,000 to $100,000+

Minimum Education Level

Medical Degree

Certification/License

Required

Outlook

Faster than the Average
Personality Traits

Helpful

Problem-Solving

Scientific

Career Ladder
Dentist, Practice Owner

Dentist, Practice Partner

Dentist

Dentist, Practice Intern/Resident

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