Dentist
Dentist who provide dental care in a clinical setting are often the first health care professionals to recognize and identify a wide variety of diseases, ranging from high blood pressure to cancer. In addition to preventative services, dentist diagnose and treat oral problems affecting the teeth, gums, tongue, lips and jaws. Cosmetic dental procedures help patients feel better about their smiles and restorative procedures help patients preserve and maintain a healthy dentition throughout their lifetime.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Work Environment: Dentists usually work with a dental hygienist, dental assistant or nurse. They may have their own practice or be part of a dental or medical group, or work in a hospital, public health department or the military.

HIGH SCHOOL PREPARATION
General college preparation is recommended: Three courses in math including algebra I, algebra II and geometry, or a higher level math course for which algebra II is a prerequisite; three science courses including one biological science, one physical science and one lab course; four English units and two social studies units, including one in U.S. History; and two years of foreign language.

ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS
A minimum of three years (96 semester hours) of accredited college work is required to enter a school of dentistry. Sixty-four hours may be from a community or technical college. Thirty-two semester hours must be from a four-year college. Specific courses must include biology, physics, general chemistry, organic chemistry and English. Dentists must then complete four years of dental school. In addition, two or more years are required for specialty training. Dentists must graduate from schools recognized by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association. In order to practice, they must pass examinations approved by the National Board of Dental Examiners as well as a state licensing examination.

AVERAGE STARTING SALARY
General Practice: $82,000
Specialist: $130,000