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Right now, there’s a serious need for new heroes in healthcare—and dentistry is calling. Across the United States, more than 70 million people live in areas with too few dental professionals to meet their needs. These areas are called Dental Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs), and in many of them, only 1 in 3 people can get the dental care they need to stay healthy.
Imagine waiting months—or even years—for a dental appointment. Or having to drive hours to see a provider that accepts your insurance. This is the reality for many families in both rural and urban communities. Without access to dental care, children miss school, adults lose work, and small problems become painful, costly emergencies. Each year, around 2 million people visit emergency rooms for dental pain—most of it preventable.
But you can change that.
Dentistry offers more than just a paycheck—it offers purpose. Whether you're passionate about science, enjoy working with people, love hands-on work, or want a flexible, high-paying career, there’s a place for you in the dental world.
Dental careers are consistently ranked among the top health professions for job satisfaction, work-life balance, and income. Even better? You can start making a difference without spending a decade in school.
Dentist
Lead the team that keeps smiles healthy. Dentists diagnose and treat oral diseases, fill cavities, extract teeth, and restore smiles. Some specialize in pediatrics, surgery, or orthodontics.
Dental Hygienist
Clean teeth, educate patients, take x-rays, and help prevent gum disease. Hygienists are often the first line of defense against oral health problems.
Dental Assistant
Support dentists during exams and procedures, manage office tasks, sterilize tools, and comfort patients.
Dental Lab Technician
Use art and science to create crowns, bridges, dentures, and orthodontic devices that change lives.
Dental Therapist (in select states)
Similar to a physician assistant, dental therapists provide basic care like filling cavities and placing crowns, often in underserved communities.
Community Dental Health Coordinator (CDHC)
Work in schools and public health settings to connect families with dental services and teach prevention.
Oral Pathologist / Oral Radiologist
Diagnose diseases of the mouth and jaw using advanced imaging and laboratory techniques.
Not all dental careers involve working directly with patients. You can also explore:
In High School:
In College:
Whether you're interested in clinical care, community health, technology, or education, there’s a dental career path that fits your goals. You won’t just fix teeth—you’ll help people eat, speak, smile, and live healthier lives. And for many, that’s life-changing.
Learn more about careers in dentistry at:
Join the Movement
June is Oral Health Month. Take part in our Share Your Smile campaign and help raise awareness about access to dental care. Learn more at ShareYourSmileCampaign.org
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