The dental industry is in the health care sector and within it are various different positions including dentist, hygienist, assistant, receptionist and laboratory technician. Whether looking for a job at entry level or a job which is more advanced, the industry provides plenty of options.
A general dentist will work with his hygienist and assistant to serve his patients’ needs. In addition to examining teeth, the dentist can perform such tasks as administrating anesthetics and employing drills or various other tools to clean out and fill cavities. A laboratory technician will work with the dentist directly to provide the products which patients need.
There are various specialty roles such as: orthodontists, who straighten teeth; pediatric dentists, who work with special needs patients and children; periodontists, who treat gums; endodontists, who specialize in root canal therapy; and oral and maxillofacial surgeons, who operate on the jaws, teeth, mouth, gums, head and neck.
The skills required and pay rate depend on what area of dentistry you enter. The salary of a general dentist, for example, can range between C
$78,000 and C
$113,000 with bonuses on top, and a dental receptionist will generally earn between C
$25,000 and C
$36,000.