Dentists, General
General dentists examine, diagnose, and treat diseases and injuries affecting teeth, gums, and related oral tissues. They perform procedures like cleanings, fillings, and extractions, and may fit dental appliances or provide preventive care. Most work in private dental practices, though some are employed in hospitals, clinics, or public health settings.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against dentists, general and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week includes patient examinations using diagnostic tools like X-rays, treating cavities with fillings, performing root canals or extractions, and fitting crowns or bridges. Dentists spend time reviewing patient histories, consulting with specialists when needed, and managing practice operations. They alternate between clinical work at the chair and administrative tasks like reviewing lab results and treatment planning.
Who this work suits
Holland code IRS. Investigative work is figuring things out: analysis, research, problem-solving. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You enjoy investigative work and hands-on problem-solving with tangible results. You're detail-oriented, comfortable with technical procedures and equipment, and prefer working with concrete biological systems over abstract concepts. You're willing to invest in extensive education and training to develop specialized clinical skills.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold doct.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Openings right now
- Dentist (General Practice) · Military Treatment Facilities under DHA · Fort Jackson, South Carolina · $124308–$315000
- General Dentist · Veterans Health Administration · Fredericksburg, Virginia · $200000–$315000
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska | $129,910 | $230,990 | $279,870 | 310 |
| North Dakota | $151,110 | $220,660 | $275,680 | 260 |
| Minnesota | $194,990 | $219,200 | $220,230 | 2,370 |
| Tennessee | $133,710 | $215,290 | $269,120 | 2,200 |
| Oregon | $169,430 | $211,690 | $306,890 | 1,660 |
| Maine | $160,980 | $209,200 | $351,830 | 310 |
| North Carolina | $151,810 | $207,000 | $232,880 | 4,140 |
| Georgia | $154,550 | $206,760 | $257,910 | 2,620 |
| Missouri | $131,980 | $204,960 | $334,680 | 2,440 |
| Vermont | $156,050 | $204,960 | $234,980 | 240 |
| Virginia | $134,870 | $197,110 | $259,530 | 4,140 |
| Arizona | $118,910 | $194,180 | $221,380 | 3,470 |
All 47 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Board Certified General Dentist — American Board of General Dentistry
- Certification in Laser Dentist — Academy of Laser Dentistry
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against dentists, general and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 29-1021.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.