Dentists, General
O*NET 29-1021.00 · SOC 29-1021
Dentist is a solid career choice. Median pay is $171k a year with +5.7% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 4,200 openings a year. AI exposure: Low.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Examine patients and diagnose oral health conditions
- →Perform fillings, extractions, and restorative procedures
- →Take and interpret dental X-rays and imaging
- →Develop treatment plans for patient dental care
- →Educate patients on oral hygiene and preventive care
Education & How to Get In
Dentist roles typically require a master's degree, doctorate, or professional degree. This is a long-term investment, expect 6–10 years of post-secondary education, but the depth of expertise commands strong compensation and career stability.
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Work Environment
Analytical, research labs, offices, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Dentist involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Dentist?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Dentist Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
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Job Outlook
Employment of Dentists, General is projected to grow 5.7% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·30% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace
- ·27% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
- ·Industry sector with low automation exposure
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Dentist make?
The median Dentist earns $171k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Dentist jobs?
Our model puts Dentist at 23 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is low risk, AI-resistant. The main drivers: 30% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace; 27% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Dentist a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 5.7% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 4,200 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Dentist?
Dentist roles generally require a master's, doctorate or professional degree, so plan for graduate study rather than a bachelor's alone.
How long does it take to become a Dentist?
Typically six to ten years, typically a master's, doctorate or professional degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 5 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Dentist career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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