Most dentists have at least 8 years of education beyond high school. Employment of dentists is expected to grow slower than the average as young people are troubled less by tooth decay. Dental care will focus more on prevention, including teaching people how to care better for their teeth. They remove decay, fill cavities, examine x rays, place protective plastic sealants on children s teeth, straighten teeth, and repair fractured teeth. They also perform corrective surgery on gums and supporting bones to treat gum diseases.
Dentists extract teeth and make models and measurements for dentures to replace missing teeth.
They provide instruction on diet, brushing, flossing, the use of fluorides, and other aspects of dental care, as well. They also administer anesthetics and write prescriptions for antibiotics and other medications. Dentists use a variety of equipment, including x-ray machines, drills, and instruments such as mouth mirrors, probes, forceps, brushes, and scalpels. They also wear masks, gloves, and safety glasses to protect themselves and their patients from infectious diseases. Dentists in private practice oversee a variety of administrative tasks, including bookkeeping, and buying equipment and supplies.