May include taking x-rays, filling cavities, performing oral surgery, straightening teeth, and treating gum disease. Dentistry has eight recognized specialties. Two to four years of pre-dental training at an accredited college and graduation from a dental school. To specialize, graduate programs must be taken. There were approximately 2,940 Dentists employed in Alabama in 1998.
Most Dentists have a private practice.
Some work for hospitals and clinics. An average of 110 job openings occurs each year. Experienced dentists usually average earning considerably more. Salary may vary according to location and individual ability. Must be able to mentally picture the position and shape of objects and predict their resulting position after movement in space.