Archaeological research suggests that dental work, in the form of teeth drilling, was present as far back as 9000 years ago, according to an article by the BBC. Thus it could be said that as long as there has been society, there have been dentists. This ancient, respected profession remains immensely lucrative to this day. The American Dental Association (ADA) notes that the main draws to choosing a career in dentistry include:

1. Improving the lives of others: As a dentist, you not only help protect people’s health through hygienic dental care—you can also have a huge impact on your patients’ confidence through giving them a beautiful smile
2. Creative and intellectual challenges: With the advent of laser dental techniques and computer-assisted diagnostics, dentists today have the opportunity to work in an exciting, cutting-edge field.
3. Job security: As life expectancy and medical coverage increase over time, so do clients

Furthermore, there is one additional advantage to going into dentistry that is often overlooked: ease of employment. Companies that hire dentists grow more numerous year over year. In fact, estimates project the employment of dentists to increase 20% from 2016 to 2026, placing it at the forefront of job growth by occupation. Part of this increase in dentist openings is due to the fact that, according to the ADA, “Large numbers of dentists are projected to retire in the next 20 years and new dentists will be needed” for a variety of dental positions. These include private dentist jobs, pediatric dentist jobs, positions as teachers/researchers, and work in public health dentistry.

These dental opportunities are increasing not only in quantity, but in quality as well. As dental technology advances, companies that hire dentists are able to offer equipment for digital radiography, laser systems, and informatics, increasing effectiveness while simultaneously shortening visits.

Convinced to pursue dentistry, but don’t know where to start? The ADA recommends taking math and natural sciences in high school and college, and volunteering or shadowing at a local dentist’s or orthodontist’s office. Once you are qualified, you can use a recruitment agency such as ours to find companies that hire dentists in your area.