Dentists use a variety of equipment, including x-ray machines, drills and instruments.
Dentists extract teeth and make molds and measurements for dentures to replace missing teeth.
They also provide instruction in diet, brushing, flossing and other aspects of dental care. Education Dentists must have at least eight years of education beyond high school. Pre-dental programs are offered at four year colleges and universities. All 50 states and the District of Columbia require dentists to be licensed. In most states, a candidate must graduate from a dental school accredited by the American Dental Association's Commission on Dental Accreditation and pass written and practical examinations.