The medical industry has always fascinated you. You know you are meant to be a doctor, but what specialty is the right one for you? You may want to consider dentistry. There are plenty of reasons to go to dental school. Continue reading this quick guide to see if this career path is right for you!
You’re Passionate About Oral Health
Dental school specializes in oral health, and that’s something you’re passionate about! While all medical schools focus on human anatomy and proper patient care, as a dentist, you can narrow your focus to helping others specifically with their oral health.
The Curriculum
Med school and dental school are both four-year programs to enhance your basic medical knowledge. Within the first two years of both programs, the curriculum is quite similar; all students take core classes about anatomy, physiology, microbiology, biochemistry, and pharmacology.
But the last two years are when the courses differ.
Dental students spend these years learning in detail about oral anatomy, pathology, and histology. The program involves a lot of studying, tests, and hands-on dental courses to prepare students for life after graduation.
The Next Step After Graduation
Another reason to go to dental school is that once you graduate, you’re ready for your first position as an entry-level dentist. In comparison, if you attend med school instead, after graduation, you enter a residency program that lasts from three to seven years!
No medical career is easy or fast, but once you graduate dental school, you’re ready to practice medicine.
Comfortable Income
The salary range for dentists is wide, but you’re guaranteed to make sufficient funds to comfortably support yourself and loved ones. The average annual salary falls around $165,000, and your starting salary will most likely be closer to $100,000.
On the other hand, graduates from med school participating in their residency program will start with a salary of around $60,000 in their first year.
Consistent Work Schedule
When compared to the unpredictable and long hours of many other medical professions, dentists have a relatively comfortable schedule that generally allows them to anticipate their weekly schedule. On the busier end of the spectrum, dentists running their own private practice might work from seven to 10 hours a day.
As a dentist, however, making time for personal needs and spending time with family is generally easier than it is for other medical professionals.
Now that you know the benefits of going to dental school, you may want to pursue a career in dentistry. If you know it’s the right fit for you, you won’t regret it!
