Plan A: Orthodontist
A job that makes everyone feel clean!
What they do: Dentists diagnose and treat problems with patients’ teeth, gums, and related parts of the mouth.
Work Environment: 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.
How to Become One: 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.
Pay: The median annual wage for dentists was $179,210 in May 2024.
Job Outlook: Overall employment of dentists is projected to grow 4 percent from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. About 4,500 openings for dentists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
Similar Occupations: Medical scientists, Dental assistants, veterarians, chiropractors, etc.
Interesting Facts: All orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists. They must complete dental school plus a 2–3 year specialized residency.