Dentist: Profession That Fascinates Me Essay Example

public can access dental services for educational purposes. The hospital specializes in oral surgery, pediatric dentistry, maxillofacial surgery, orthodontics, and restorative dentistry.

To become a dentist, the requirements may vary by state but typically involve obtaining a license and graduating from an accredited dental institution. This usually includes passing written exams and practicals. Most dental schools require applicants to have a bachelor's degree and completed science courses like chemistry and biology. While majoring in sciences can significantly increase one's chances of being accepted into dental school, there are no specific majors required.

The Dental Acceptance Test (DAT) is a required exam for college undergraduates who are applying to dental school. Typically, this test is given during their junior year. Admission to dental schools is highly competitive because dentistry is seen as an interesting and exciting career. These tests are used by dental schools to choose the best candidates who have a passion for dentistry, in addition to considering factors such as grade point average and recommendations. Dental schools offer various mandatory classes including anatomy, radiology, local anesthesia, and periodontology (which focuses on oral health and infections/diseases). One fascinating aspect of studying dentistry is that all students gain hands-on experience with patients in a clinical setting, which helps improve their skills. It's recommended that high school students who want to become dentists take courses like chemistry, physics, mathematics, biology, and anatomy so they can pursue a degree in this field.

The General Dentist Council (GDC) typically requires a dentist's degree to be approved, which usually takes 5 years. This approval is essential for becoming a dentist. So, what are the day-to-day tasks and responsibilities of dentists?

• Dental checkups and cleanings:

To

assess a patient's condition, dentists need to thoroughly examine their teeth and gums in order to determine the extent of any damage. During a dental checkup, a dental hygienist performs cleaning procedures under the guidance of the dentist. The responsibility of the dentist also involves conducting checkups to diagnose any issues reported by patients.

• Patient conference

Dentistry ensures transparency by consulting and informing patients about their treatment options after examinations. A patient conference involves discussing good oral hygiene, flossing techniques, proper brushing, and choosing a treatment based on the patient's financial situation.

• Extraction and treatments
• Additional testing

Dental hygienists perform X-rays and diagnostic procedures as instructed by dentists to evaluate the severity of dental issues.

• Prescription

Dentists prescribe medications to treat patients' illnesses.

Antibiotics and painkillers are commonly prescribed to patients as the main form of treatment. Patient education is also essential.

• Dentists not only provide treatment to patients but also offer guidance on preventing teeth and gum diseases. They serve as leaders to their staff, which includes receptionists, cleaners, assistants, and hygienists.

When considering a career path in dentistry, it is important to consider factors such as dentist salary and lifestyle considerations. Marriage, children, and the ability to afford luxury items may impact these decisions. It should be noted that dentistry does not guarantee a lavish lifestyle or constant attendance at high-profile events.

Despite the fact that my life revolves around sustaining myself, dentistry is not motivated by money but rather by the desire to assist individuals of all

ages. It is a noble profession where one has the opportunity to diligently serve society and alleviate them of their day-to-day oral issues.

Generally, a newly qualified dentist working for the NHS must undergo one year of dental foundation training with an annual salary amounting to ?30,732. This salary has been determined according to the General Dental Services statement of Financial Entitlements for 2016/17. Upon completion of dental foundation training, dentists can opt to work in a dental practice or pursue dental core training with a basic salary reaching up to ?48,000. The basic salary for a fully employed NHS dentist can range from ?38,486 to ?82,295.

The salary for dentistry consultants ranges from ?76,001 to ?102,465 per year, depending on their seniority level. Within the field, there are various career options available, including General Dentists (DDS) who provide primary oral healthcare and Cosmetic Dentists who specialize in improving patients' appearances.

Recognizing the significance of dentistry in our lives is important. Without dentists, our teeth would be greatly affected by sugary foods and candies. While comparing ancient civilizations to our own may not be feasible due to their lack of access to junk food, it is undeniable that modern-day dentists play a crucial role in preserving our teeth. This profession continues to captivate me as my interest grows.

The profession I have chosen allows me to serve society and provides me with various opportunities based on the work environment I desire. Hence, I believe I am making the right career choice.

References

1. Guarnizo-Herreno, Carol C., and George L. Wehby. "Dentist Supply And Children’S Oral Health In The United States." American Journal Of Public Health 104.10

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"Pattern Formation In Development Of Chondrichthyan Dentitions: A Review Of An Evolutionary Model."

The source cited is "Academic Search Premier" accessed on 1 May 2016. The article titled "Minority Dental School Graduates: Do They Serve Minority Communities?" by Roberto Montoya and others was found in the American Journal of Public Health, volume 68, issue 10, published in 1978 and available in the Business Source Premier database.

Web. 1 May 2016.

Gelb, Betsy D., and Mary C. Gilly. "The Effect Of Promotional Techniques On Purchase Of Preventive Dental Care." Journal Of Consumer Research 6.3 (1979): 305-308. Business Source Premier. Web.

1 May 2016. Rovin, Sheldon, and Jonathan Nash. "Traditional And Emerging Forms Of Dental Practice Cost, Accessibility, And Quality Factors." American Journal Of Public Health 72.7 (1982): 656-662. Business Source Premier. Web.

1 May 2016.