Dentist

Dentists diagnose and treat patients’ oral health needs. Dentists enjoy a unique, diverse, technology-driven profession with numerous areas of service and expertise. Opportunities include general dentistry or specialist areas such as orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, oral surgery, periodontics, prosthodontics and endodontics.

What does a dentist do?
  • Diagnose oral disease.
  • Create treatment plans to maintain or restore oral health.
  • Interpret x-rays and diagnostic tests.
  • Monitor the development of teeth and jaws.
  • Perform surgical procedures on the teeth, bone and soft tissue of the oral cavity.
  • Manage oral trauma and other emergency situations.
What kind of training does a dentist need?

Dentists must complete a four-year undergraduate degree and a four-year doctorate degree in dentistry. Many dentists also complete rigorous residency programs following dental school.

Click here for a list of accredited dental schools in Ohio.

Learn more about a career as a dentist