Information about Dentist Salary

Dentists diagnose and treat problems with teeth and tissues in the mouth. They also give advice and care to help prevent future problems such as cavities and gingivitis. Dentists are well compensated for their work with many earning over $ 150,000 annually. Dentists must complete a rigorous training program and pass practical and written exams for licensing to practice. At the top of their field, dentists can earn up to $ 185,000 per year.

Salary Overview

There are several factors that can determine dentist salary. However, the average wage earned by general dentists is approximately $ 142,000 per year. Profits depend on the number of years in practice, hours worked, and specialty. Dentists who specialize are more likely to see higher profits than those who do not. For example, oral and maxillofacial surgeons earn an average of 178,000 per year. Orthodontists make $ 185,000 and $ 169,000 prosthodontists win.

In general, dentists who are in the private sector have much higher earnings than employed dentists. However, dentists in the private sector must provide insurance and pension benefits for their employees at their own expense. Salaried dentists receive benefits directly from their employer. Apart from a fixed salary, the most common employee health benefits and malpractice insurance.

Job Description and Outlook

Dentists are responsible for diagnosing and treating problems involving the teeth and gingival tissues in the mouth. They also give advice on brushing, flossing, and other aspects of dental care. Another part of their job involves filling cavities, looking at the rays X, the repair of teeth, providing protective sealants, and carrying out corrective surgery.

Dentists may also be responsible for making dentures to replace missing teeth, treat gum disease, administration of anesthesia, and writing prescriptions for medications.

Dentists usually work in an office environment and wear goggles, face masks and gloves for protection. Should be familiar with the operation and a variety of equipment such as drills, x-ray machines, and advanced imaging technologies. Dentists also work with forceps, mouth mirrors, scalpels, probes, and brushes.

Since the total population of the United States increases, the demand for dental care will continue to grow. Moreover, the elderly will continue to require more complex dental work over the years. A large number of dentists expected to retire over the next year and should be replaced. Employment of dentist salary is projected to increase by 16 percent through 2018. This growth rate is faster than the average for all occupations, with 15,000 new jobs expected by 2016.