Career Description

Dentists care not only for teeth and gums, but also for the muscles and bones within or supporting the mouth. They do routine procedures such as filling cavities, cleaning teeth and repairing broken ones. They may also perform surgeries within or around the mouth to promote dental health, improve appearance and prevent disease.

Academic Requirements

Once students graduate from dental school, they must be licensed. In most states, they are required to take written and practical exams that test their knowledge of dentistry and their ability to apply it to solving problems.

Professional Organizations