Dentists

Employment of dentists is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all careers from 2023 to 2033, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Many positions will open as a result of the need to replace the large number of dentists who reach retirement age or who choose to stay in practice while reducing their office hours. Additionally, as people live longer and keep their teeth (due to better oral hygiene and improvements in dental techniques), more people will need the services of dentists.

Competition for jobs may be strong in attractive geographic areas where many people (and dentists) want to live. The strongest opportunities will be in underserved areas where there is a shortage of dentists.

Opportunities for specialists, such as cosmetic dentists, will be very good. Three-fourths of American adults believe that a winning smile is related to job success. Most adults are unhappy with their teeth, creating a demand for dentists skilled in cosmetic techniques such as bleaching and veneering. People are concerned about dental health and can usually afford dental care, especially as dental insurance becomes more readily available. Cosmetic dentists will be in demand especially in large metropolitan areas such as Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago.

Scientific advances in the field offer a promising future for specialists. The work of the oral pathologist or orthodontist, for example, will increase as people become more aware of the need for such care. Public health programs, too, can be expected to expand. Dentistry today is focusing more on preventive care than reparative practice.