Dentists are doctors who specialize in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental problems. They work in clinics, private offices, and hospitals as part of a dental team. They are trained to work in the small space of a patient’s mouth and to notice the smallest changes in a patient’s health. Dentists also educate patients on good oral health practices and disease prevention.

Choosing a dentist starts with getting recommendations from friends and family. Once you have a list, schedule appointments with the candidates to get an idea of their personalities and working style. A good dentist will be punctual and make an effort to schedule future appointments at a time that’s convenient for you. They’ll also make you feel acknowledged when you walk into the office and be transparent about costs and procedures.

Caring

A caring dentist values their customers’ well-being above all else. This will be evident when they explain the positives and negatives of each option that’s available to you. They’ll never try to sell you services that aren’t necessary and will always have your best interests in mind.

A dentistry career is lucrative, with many practicing for more than 30 years. But the hours are long, and the work is stressful. It’s not uncommon for dentists to incur substantial educational debt, which can limit their financial flexibility early in their career. In addition, the specialized equipment and high overhead expenses can make dentistry an expensive venture.