Finding the right job in the dental industry can often be a challenging process. This is a growing field and there are many qualified applicants to choose from. Including Dentists, Dental Hygienists, Dental Assistants, and Dental Lab Technicians.
Therefore, it is important that you find ways to set yourself apart and to make the best possible impression. The following information will provide a closer look at four helpful tips for finding a job in the dental industry, which you may want to consider if you are unsure where to start:
Obtain a Degree or Certificate
Many jobs within the dental field will require that you have some sort of continued education, such as a degree or certificate. For example, in order to become a dental assistant, you might want to look at local trade schools in your area. Dental assistants provide patient care, take x rays, recordkeeping and schedule appointments. The median annual wage for dental assistants was $38,660 in May 2018.
Dental hygienists clean teeth, examine patients for signs of oral diseases such as gingivitis and provide other preventive dental care. The median annual wage for dental hygienists was $74,820 in May 2018. If you are interested in becoming a dental hygienist, this will require at least an associate’s degree.
Lastly, becoming a dentist is a very long process, which typically takes eight years. However, this can be a very rewarding career path that allows you to reach a higher level of professional success. Some dentists have their own business and work alone or with a small staff. Other dentists have partners in their practice. Still others work as associate dentists for established dental practices. Dentists must be licensed in the state in which they work. Licensure requirements vary by state, although candidates usually must graduate from an accredited dental program and pass written and clinical exams. The median annual wage for dentists was $156,240 in May 2018.
Gain Relevant Experience
If you have just finished your schooling and don’t have any relevant experience in your field, it can be helpful to find an internship. You can typically find intern positions by searching online or local job boards. Your school should also be able to help you find appropriate internships.
Polish Your Resume
Your resume is a very important factor when it comes to getting a job. This is especially true if you are applying for positions online because this will give employers their first impression of you. Therefore, you will want to ensure that you take the time to make your resume polished and professional. As previously mentioned, completing an internship will look excellent on your resume. You may also want to consider doing volunteer work and finding ways to display any special skills you possess.
Develop Effective Interviewing Skills
The way that you present yourself when interviewing for a position in the dental industry is very important. You will need to ensure that you are on time and well-prepared. It can be beneficial to practice common interview questions beforehand, and you will want to ensure that you are dressed professionally. This will help to show your potential employer that you are serious and qualified for the job.
Overall, finding a job in the dental industry can sometimes take a lot of time and effort. However, if it is something you are passionate about, it is definitely worth pursuing. It is a very stable and often lucrative field that can help you to support yourself financially and to obtain the level of professional success you are searching for.
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