When working on teeth, dentists sometimes need to exert force. Most full-time dentists work about 40 hours a week. Some dentists work evenings or Saturdays. Many dentists work past the normal retirement age. Hazards include exposure to infectious diseases and radiation.
Injuries are possible from drills and sharp tools.
Dentists wear protective clothing such as masks, gloves, glasses, and lead shields. They often wear lab jackets. Recent dental school graduates may work for established dentists for a few years in order to gain experience and save money for an office of their own. Some students open private practices when they graduate. Wages vary according to training, experience and location.