A dentist is a medical professional that specializes in dental surgery and dental treatment. He or she has a support team of dental assistants, hygienists, technicians, and therapists. These individuals work with the dentist to help them provide oral health care for their patients. They also assist the dentist during procedures.
Characteristics of a dentist
One of the most important traits a dentist should have is compassion. Dental visits can be a frightening experience for many patients, and they should be treated with extra compassion. If they can relate to their patients’ fears, they will be able to provide more personalized care. These traits make it easier for them to deal with patients’ dental anxieties.
A dentist’s office should be clean and well-maintained. The reception area should be comfortable and the dental team should be friendly and welcoming. Professional competence is also a must. Dentists work in teams, collaborating with dental assistants, dental hygienists, lab technicians, oral surgeons, orthodontists, and the office staff. The dentist should have excellent interpersonal skills and be a good leader.
Education requirements
The University of Washington School of Dentistry offers continuing education courses for dentists. The classes are available online or in the form of recorded webinars or live lectures. Students receive credits for completing the course. The number of credits varies based on the length of the course. The courses cost less than $100. Most dentists go on to work in private practice.
In addition to dental school, dentists must complete training in dental jurisprudence and ethics. CPR certification is also required, and dentists must maintain this certification every four years. Infection control training is also required. The Whites Dental Care Office of the Professions maintains a list of approved training providers.
Career opportunities
The dental profession offers a range of exciting career options, from clinical practice to academic leadership. With an increasing demand for oral health professionals, there are plenty of options for aspiring dentists. In addition to being a lucrative career choice, dentistry also provides a great deal of satisfaction and work-life balance.
In general, dentists work as a team to provide quality dental services to patients. Depending on their specialty, dentists can also choose to open their own private practice or take on research. Their salaries are commensurate with their education, skills, and experience.
Personality traits
According to a recent study, dentists tend to have more of the following personality traits than non-dentists. This study reveals the dominant personality style in dentists, ISTJ, in nine out of the 14 personality styles. This type of personality is good for working in a team and interacting with co-workers.
Although the traits are not directly related, they do influence their performance. ISTJs are good at analyzing details and solving problems. Their logical and pragmatic approach to life makes them ideal candidates for dentists. However, people with the INFJ personality type are less likely to be good at this type of job.