What does a dentist do? Duties, pay, education and outlook
Dentists diagnose and treat problems with patients' teeth, gums and related parts of the mouth. They need a DDS or DMD degree and a state license. BLS reports a median pay of $176,110 per year (May 2025). Figures are from the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
At a glance
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| SOC code | 29-1020 |
| O*NET code | 29-1021.00 |
| Typical entry education | Doctoral or professional degree |
| Median annual wage | $176,110 per year (May 2025) |
| Projected growth | 6 percent (faster than average), 2025 to 2035 |
| Number of jobs | 161,400 (2025) |
Source: BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook, accessed 31 October 2026.
What does a dentist do?
BLS says dentists remove decay and fill cavities, repair or remove damaged teeth, place sealants or whitening agents, administer anesthetics, prescribe antibiotics or other medications, examine x-rays, make models and measurements for appliances such as dentures, and teach patients about diet, flossing, fluoride and dental care.
Work environment
Some dentists have their own business and work alone or with a small staff. Offices of dentists employ 78 percent, and self-employed workers account for 12 percent.
Education, training and licensing
BLS says dentists need a DDS or DMD degree from an accredited dental program, which usually requires at least a bachelor's degree and science coursework. Dentists must be licensed in the state where they practice, usually by passing written and clinical exams. Specialties require residency training.
Skills that matter
BLS lists communication, attention to detail, dexterity, leadership, organization, patience and problem-solving as important qualities for this work.
How much does a dentist make?
BLS reports a median annual wage of $176,110 for dentists (May 2025). The median is the wage at which half of workers earned more and half earned less. See the OOH pay tab and the OEWS data for your area. Our guide to researching pay explains how to read the figures.
Job outlook
BLS projects employment of dentists to grow 6 percent from 2025 to 2035, which BLS labels faster than average. For comparison, BLS projects 3 percent growth for all occupations over the same period. About 4,800 openings are projected each year on average.
How to get hired
- Check your state dental board for licensing exams and any specialty requirements.
- Show results on your resume: the tools you used, the volume you handled and the outcomes, without private customer or employer details.
- If you lack experience, see the no-experience resume guide.
- Practice with the interview prep hub.
When you are ready, search jobs on LiveRec.
Related occupations
Dental hygienists, Dental assistants, Physicians and surgeons, Pharmacists.
Frequently asked questions
What degree do dentists need? BLS says dentists need a DDS or DMD degree from an accredited dental program, which usually requires at least a bachelor's degree and science coursework.
Do dentists need a license? Yes. BLS says dentists must be licensed in the state where they practice, usually by passing written and clinical exams.
How much do dentists make? BLS reports a median annual wage of $176,110 for dentists (May 2025). Half of workers earned more and half earned less. Pay varies by employer, region and experience.
Is dentist a good career? BLS projects 6 percent growth from 2025 to 2035 (faster than average). About 4,800 openings are projected each year. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, so read the duties and work environment above.
Related guides
- What Does a Dental Hygienist Do? Duties, Pay, Outlook
- What Does a Dental Assistant Do? Duties, Pay, Outlook
- What Does a Physician Do? Duties, Pay, Outlook
- Pharmacist: Duties, Pay, Education, Outlook
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Dentists: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/dentists.htm (accessed 31 October 2026)
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics: https://www.bls.gov/oes/ (accessed 31 October 2026)
- O*NET OnLine, 29-1021.00: https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/29-1021.00 (accessed 31 October 2026)
This is general information, not legal, tax or immigration advice. Rules change and your situation may differ. Consult a licensed attorney or qualified adviser.