Good oral health is more than just having pearly, white teeth and a pretty smile. Preventing cavities prevent tooth decay or complicating worse health problems.
Did you know that bad oral hygiene is linked to heart disease?
Although we have dentists who help us investigate and deep clean our teeth, not many people enjoy the trip. Frequent missed visits are harmful in the long run.
It takes the right person with the right passion for helping these people, but how much does it cost to become a dentist? Is it a career you could be happy doing in the long run?
If you are dedicated to protecting your teeth and feel inclined to speak and do the same for others, then the answer is yes.
Becoming a Dentist
Dentists are essentially oral doctors. They are paid well for their expertise in the field. They make about $156,000 each year or $75 per hour. Opting to specialize in a particular area increases income potential.
Not only is salary potential high, but the employment outlook is high. The growth rate for dentists for 2018-2028 is 7%. This rate is 2% higher than standard growth rates for other jobs.
Who knows, after several years of experience, you might find yourself interested in dental real estate, which would maximize what you could make as you work more independently.
Before you earn the big bucks as a dentist, you must be willing to invest in yourself first and go to school to get licensed. Students must apply and graduate from an accredited four-year university with a bachelor’s degree.
After this, you must then spend another four years at a dental school. Those who want to become dentists must spend at least eight years in school.
You will receive your Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) following this.
After graduating and passing the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) in your state, you are still required to study in the field. Dentists must complete continuing education every three years. This is mandatory for dentists who practice to stay up to date in the field.
How Much Does it Cost to Become a Dentist?
Your educational expenses will depend on the type of degree you graduate with (if you choose to advance your career) and which school(s) you go to.
When you first go to school to complete your bachelor’s degree, you can expect to spend between $50,000 and $200,000.
When you go are in dental school, you will probably spend another $150,000 to $300,000 toward your education.
When you are ready to apply for a dental school, you should decide the type of dentist you want to be.
In total, you will spend anywhere from $200,000 to $500,000 to become a dentist.
You will earn the money you spend as a student back and more once you work as a dentist. Don’t let the number scare you and prevent you from starting your career.
Start a Career
Before selecting a career, most people research what their income potential may be. How much does it cost to become a dentist? How much does it cost to be a teacher or a police officer?
Calculating what you will make in the future is an excellent motivator while you are on the journey.
The tears and struggle of being a student in school become worth it once you finally can work as a dentist.
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