General Dentist

A general dentist can be described as the most important job for the care and maintaining oral health, since dentists are accountable to see patients for regular examinations and addressing issues that range from minor toothaches to broken and cracked teeth. They also have to establish connections with their clients and build a large client base.

A doctorate degree in dentistry, DDS, from an accredited dental school and an authorization to practice dentistry in the state where you work and a registration in the American Dental Association are required to be eligible for this job. Dental students often get experience working as assistants to experienced dentists.

The people in this job are employed in private practice or hospitals with other dentists, and sometimes working with specialist dentists like orthodontists, oral maxillofacial surgeons and other specialists. The hours they work are flexible based on their schedule however, they are generally working time slots for office work. There are some who may be on call at home in case of dental emergencies. These are not common, but they can happen.

As a General Dentist with 6-9 years of experience in India, here are some main responsibilities:

• Diagnose oral health conditions, develop treatment plans, and perform various dental procedures like fillings, extractions, and root canals.
• Provide consultations to patients regarding their oral health, educate them about preventive care, and recommend suitable treatments.
• Supervise dental hygienists and dental assistants, ensuring proper hygiene protocols, efficient workflow, and high-quality patient care.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in dentistry, attend conferences, and participate in professional development activities to enhance skills and knowledge.

Major educational qualifications required for General Dentist are:

• Doctoral degree in dental medicine.
• The dentist is licensed to practice in the state where residency is required.
• Continuous education for the latest methods and guidelines.
• Experience working in compliance to HIPAA and other medical privacy laws.
• A professional and caring manner when dealing with patients.
• Personal responsibility and attention to detail is required.
• Ability to multitask and take accurate and quick decisions.
• Working in a large-volume dental practice and providing exceptional treatment.
• A strict adherence to hygiene requirements for equipment and procedures.

Some Alternative job roles available for General Dentist are:

• Dental Hygienists/Dentists: Dental hygienists focus on preventive dental care and oral health education, while dentists perform a wide range of dental procedures and treatments.
• Oral Surgeon: Oral surgeons specialize in performing surgical procedures on the mouth, jaw, and facial areas, such as wisdom teeth extraction and corrective jaw surgery.
• Orthodontics: Orthodontists specialize in correcting misaligned teeth and jaw using braces, aligners, and other orthodontic appliances.
• Pedodontics: Also known as a pediatric dentist, pedodontists provide dental care to children and teenagers, ensuring their oral health from a young age.
• Periodontics: Periodontists focus on diagnosing, preventing, and treating gum diseases and other conditions that affect the supporting structures of the teeth.
• Prosthodontics: Prosthodontists specialize in restoring and replacing damaged or missing teeth with dental prosthetics, such as crowns, bridges, and dentures.

The general dentist role has a positive industry outlook with growing demand for oral healthcare services. As the population continues to age and dental awareness increases, there will be sustained need for routine check-ups, preventive care, and dental treatments. Additionally, advancements in dental technology and an emphasis on overall health linkages will drive further growth in this profession. General dentists can expect a promising job market and opportunities for practice expansion, providing essential oral health services to patients of all ages, and contributing to the overall well-being of communities.