Dentistry as a Profession
Employment of dentists is expected to grow by 21 percent from 2010 to 2020, faster than the average for all occupations. Dentists will continue to see an increase in public demand for their services as studies continue to link oral health to overall health. Employment of dentists is projected
to grow about as fast as
average for all occupations through
2014. Although employment growth will
provide some job opportunities, most
jobs will result from the need to replace
the large number of dentists expected
to retire. Job prospects should be good
as new dentists take over established
practices or start their own. Demand
for dental care should grow substantially
through 2014. As members of the baby-boom
generation advance into middle age, a
large number will need complicated dental
work, such as bridges. In addition, elderly
people are more likely to retain their
teeth than were their predecessors, so
they will require much more care than
in the past. The younger generation will
continue to need preventive checkups
despite treatments such as fluoridation
of the water supply, which decreases
the incidence of tooth decay. However,
employment of dentists is not expected
to grow as rapidly as the demand for
dental services. As their practices expand,
dentists are likely to hire more dental
hygienists and dental assistants to handle
routine services. Dentists will increasingly
provide care and instruction aimed at
preventing the loss of teeth, rather
than simply providing treatments such
as fillings. Improvements in dental technology
also will allow dentists to offer more
effective and less painful treatment
to their patients.
For information on dentistry as a career, a list of accredited dental schools, and a list of State boards of dental examiners, contact:
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