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What does a General Dentist do?

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Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A general dentist is a dental professional who provides various dental services and treatments to patients. These services can include routine checkups and cleanings, as well as more complex procedures such as fillings, crowns, bridges, and extractions. General dentists typically work in private practices, although some may also be employed by hospitals or other healthcare facilities.

General Dentist job duties include:

  • Examine patients' teeth, gums, and related tissues to determine dental health
  • Diagnose patients' dental conditions and provide appropriate treatments
  • Plan and execute treatment plans for patients, including oral surgery
  • Prescribe or administer medication, prophylactic, or other therapeutic agents to treat or prevent dental disease or injury
  • Supervise dental hygienists and auxiliary personnel in the provision of dental care and services
  • Keep abreast of new developments in dentistry through continuing education courses, attending seminars, and reading professional journals
  • Make models and measurements for dental appliances such as dentures, bridges, and crowns, using oral impressions or direct tracings of the teeth
  • Perform administrative duties such as updating patient records, ordering supplies, billing insurance companies, and scheduling appointments
  • Refer patients to dental specialists when necessary

General Dentist Job Requirements

A general dentist is a medical professional who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases and disorders of the teeth, gums, and oral cavity. A dentist must have a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from an accredited dental school and must pass both state and national board exams. In addition to formal education and training, a dentist must have a valid license to practice in their state. Most states require dentists to complete continuing education credits every year to maintain their license.

General Dentist Skills

  • Examination
  • Diagnosis
  • Tooth removal
  • Fillings
  • Crowns
  • Bridges
  • Implants
  • Veneers
  • Inlays/Onlays
  • Dentures
  • Root canals

Related: Top General Dentist Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a General Dentist

A general dentist is a medical professional who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases and disorders of the mouth, teeth, and gums. A general dentist can also provide guidance on proper oral hygiene practices. In order to become a general dentist, one must first complete an accredited dental program. After graduation, dentists must pass both a written and clinical exam administered by the state in which they wish to practice. Some states may require additional exams or licensure. Once licensed, dentists can begin practicing general dentistry.

Related: General Dentist Resume Example

Related: General Dentist Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

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Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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