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All Majors
Life Sciences & Medicine

Dentistry

Top Salary
$172,790
Job Growth
+3%
Total Employed
129,800
Career Paths
1

Overview

The Dentistry major prepares students for a rewarding career in oral health care, focusing on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of dental diseases. Students will learn about various aspects of dental science, including anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and pathology, as well as the latest techniques in dental procedures. Key study areas encompass oral biology, dental materials, radiology, and patient management, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of both the technical and interpersonal skills necessary for effective practice. In addition to technical skills, students will develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, which are essential for making informed decisions in patient care. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of communication and customer service, as dentists must effectively interact with patients to understand their needs and provide quality care. Career outcomes for graduates are promising, with general dentists earning an average salary of $172,790 per year and a projected job growth rate of 3%. The skills acquired during the program, such as active listening, monitoring, and judgment, are highly valued in the healthcare industry, making dentistry a stable and fulfilling career choice for those passionate about improving oral health and enhancing patient well-being.

Source: O*NET Database — U.S. Department of Labor

Career Paths & Salaries

Dentists, General
129,800 employed+3% growth
$172,790
/year

Salary data from Bureau of Labor Statistics (last updated: February 2026)

Top Required Skills

Critical Thinking82%
Judgment and Decision Making82%
Reading Comprehension80%
Active Listening80%
Speaking80%
Monitoring80%
Complex Problem Solving80%
Active Learning78%

Core Knowledge Areas

Medicine and Dentistry100%
Customer and Personal Service85%
English Language79%
Biology70%
Psychology69%
Education and Training66%
Administration and Management64%
Personnel and Human Resources64%

Frequently Asked Questions

What job opportunities are available for Dentistry graduates?

Dentistry graduates can work as general dentists, with an expected average salary of $172,790 per year and a projected growth rate of 3% in this field.

What essential skills do I need to study Dentistry?

Essential skills needed to study Dentistry include critical thinking, judgment and decision making, reading comprehension, active listening, speaking, monitoring, complex problem solving, and active learning.

What is the duration of Dentistry studies at university?

Typically, studying Dentistry at university requires about 4 to 6 years, depending on the academic program and specialization.

Is there a demand for dentists in the job market?

Yes, there is a continuous demand for dentists, with a projected growth rate of 3% in this field, indicating that job opportunities will remain available.

What are the available specializations in Dentistry?

Available specializations in Dentistry include cosmetic dentistry, pediatric dentistry, preventive dentistry, and surgical dentistry.

Education Level

Doctoral Degree81%
Some College, No Degree7%
Associate's Degree6%
Master's Degree6%

Data Source

Data from O*NET 30.2 Database (U.S. Dept. of Labor, February 2026) and Bureau of Labor Statistics salary data.