General Dentist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era of growing health consciousness, the role of general dentists has become more crucial than ever.

As we become more aware of the importance of oral health, the demand for proficient professionals who can protect, improve, and maintain our dental health is on the rise.

But let’s delve deeper: What exactly is expected from a general dentist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to comprehend the core of this role,
• A hiring manager conceptualizing the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the realm of dentistry,

You’ve landed in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable general dentist job description template, designed for straightforward posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

General Dentist Duties and Responsibilities

General Dentists are responsible for diagnosing and treating problems with the teeth and mouth.

They also advise patients on oral health and preventative care.

In addition to performing examinations, they provide treatments such as fillings, extractions, and dental cleanings.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Examining patients’ oral health through routine check-ups and identifying issues such as decay and disease
• Diagnosing dental conditions and planning appropriate treatments
• Administering local anesthetics to patients
• Performing dental procedures such as fillings, tooth extractions, and root canals
• Creating dental devices such as dentures and bridges for patients
• Teaching patients about oral hygiene and preventative dental care
• Maintaining detailed records of patients’ dental histories
• Keeping up-to-date with advancements in the dental industry and integrating new technologies into treatments
• Ordering dental supplies and maintaining dental equipment

 

General Dentist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a knowledgeable Dentist who can provide a range of services to our patients.

The Dentist will meet with patients, assess their dental health, perform scheduled cleanings, handle complex procedures, such as root canals, extractions, and oral surgery, and work with other staff members, such as dental hygienists and assistants, to provide our clients with quality dental services.

Our ideal candidate has a degree in dentistry, an active state license, experience in a clinical setting, and excellent communication skills.

 

Responsibilities

• Evaluating the dental health of patients and administering preventive treatments.
• Educating patients about oral hygiene and preventive dental care.
• Examining patients’ teeth and mouth for signs of dental disease.
• Performing dental procedures, such as extractions, root canals, and filling cavities.
• Correcting bite issues and overcrowding.
• Applying helpful agents to teeth, such as sealants or whitening agents.
• Prescribing medication for dental problems, such as pain medications or antibiotics.
• Giving clients sedatives or anesthesia prior to administering treatments.

 

Qualifications

• Doctorate of Dental Surgery or Dental Medicine.
• State license and malpractice insurance.
• Additional experience, certifications, or licensing may be required.
• Strong computer skills and experience with healthcare databases and applications.
• Willingness to comply with all local, state, and federal laws regarding dental and health care.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, ability to keep detailed records.
• Comprehensive knowledge of dental procedures, tools, and diagnostics.
• Good management skills.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education assistance

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: General Dentist
• Work Environment: Dental clinic with a variety of patients from children to elderly. Some travel may be required for professional development opportunities.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Dental Practice Manager or Dental Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $140,000 minimum to $210,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a General Dentist Do?

General Dentists are medical professionals who primarily focus on the oral health care of their patients.

They diagnose, treat, and manage overall oral healthcare needs including dental cleanings, gum care, root canals, fillings, crowns, veneers, bridges, and preventive education.

General Dentists perform routine check-ups to assess the health of their patients’ teeth and gums.

They may also take and examine dental x-rays to identify any hidden dental issues such as decay or oral diseases.

They perform dental procedures such as extractions and fillings, and offer treatments to manage oral diseases.

They may also provide cosmetic dentistry services to improve the appearance of a patient’s teeth and smile.

General Dentists also play a crucial role in preventive oral care by providing education and guidance to patients about daily dental care, diet, and other aspects that can affect oral health.

Collaboration with other healthcare providers is also a part of their role when handling more complex dental cases.

They may refer patients to dental specialists like orthodontists, periodontists, or oral surgeons when necessary.

 

General Dentist Qualifications and Skills

A proficient general dentist should have the skills and qualifications to perform a variety of dental procedures and services, which include:

• Sound knowledge of current theories and practices in the field of dentistry to diagnose and treat oral health issues.
• Excellent manual dexterity to perform delicate procedures with precision and accuracy.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to interact effectively with patients, explaining dental procedures and discussing treatment options.
• Patient care skills to provide a comfortable environment for patients, especially those who are fearful or anxious about dental procedures.
• Problem-solving skills to diagnose and treat complex oral health issues.
• Detail-oriented to ensure the completeness and accuracy of patient records, and to detect any anomalies during dental examinations.
• Business acumen to manage a practice, if required, including hiring staff, budgeting, and ensuring equipment and supplies are up to date.
• Ability to keep calm under pressure as some dental procedures can be complex and time-consuming.

 

General Dentist Experience Requirements

General Dentists are required to complete a minimum of eight years of education, including an undergraduate degree and a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from a dental school accredited by the American Dental Association (ADA).

Once they graduate, they must pass National Board Dental Examinations to obtain licensure and legally practice dentistry.

Some dentists may also choose to specialize, which requires additional years of education and training.

In terms of practical experience, dental students gain hands-on training through clinical rotations in dental schools where they work with patients under the supervision of licensed dentists.

Some may also gain experience through internships or residency programs.

Newly licensed dentists can start their careers in associate positions where they work with more experienced dentists.

After gaining some years of experience, they may be ready to open their own practice or take up senior roles in dental clinics or hospitals.

A dentist with more than 5 years of experience typically has advanced skills in various dental procedures and may have some managerial experience, thus they can take up lead dentist roles or manage their own dental practices.

Furthermore, dentists are required to stay updated with the latest advancements in dental care and treatments, and as such, they often participate in continuing education programs throughout their careers.

 

General Dentist Education and Training Requirements

To become a General Dentist, one needs to obtain a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant pre-medical or biological sciences field.

Following this, potential Dentists must attend dental school, which typically takes four years to complete.

The first two years usually involve classroom and laboratory study, while the final two years involve practice under supervision in a dental clinic.

Upon completion, students earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DDM) degree.

After graduating from dental school, dentists must acquire licensure to practice in their state.

Requirements for licensure vary by state but generally involve passing a written and clinical examination.

To stay updated with the latest dental procedures and technology advancements, Dentists are encouraged to pursue continuing education courses throughout their career.

Some dentists may also choose to specialize in a specific area of dentistry, which requires additional education and training.

Voluntary certification is also available and can demonstrate a dentist’s knowledge and skills to potential employers and patients.

These certifications may be in areas such as orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, or oral and maxillofacial surgery.

 

General Dentist Salary Expectations

A General Dentist earns an average salary of $155,600 (USD) per year.

The actual income can significantly vary based on the dentist’s experience, specialization, geographic location, and the organization they work for.

 

General Dentist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a general dentist need?

General dentists should have excellent manual dexterity, good visual memory, and the ability to manage anxiety effectively as they will often deal with patients who are afraid of dental work.

They also need good interpersonal skills, as they spend a lot of time interacting with patients and their families.

Additionally, a good dentist should have excellent problem-solving skills to diagnose and treat various oral health issues.

 

Do general dentists need a degree?

Yes, general dentists need a professional degree in dentistry from an accredited dental school and must pass a licensing exam to practice.

Most dental programs require a bachelor’s degree for admission, and some also require prerequisite courses in sciences such as biology and chemistry.

 

What should you look for in a dentist’s resume?

In a dentist’s resume, look for a degree from an accredited dental school and a valid license to practice.

Check for any additional certifications or specializations, such as orthodontics or pediatric dentistry.

Also, consider the dentist’s experience and any specific skills they have, such as proficiency in using certain dental technologies or experience with special needs patients.

 

What qualities make a good general dentist?

A good general dentist should have excellent communication skills to explain complex dental procedures to patients.

They should also be empathetic and understanding, as they often work with patients who may be in pain or fear.

Attention to detail is crucial for a dentist to identify issues that might be missed otherwise.

Lastly, a good dentist should have strong problem-solving skills to determine the best course of treatment for various dental issues.

 

What is the work environment for a general dentist?

General dentists typically work in private or group practices, but they can also work in hospitals, dental schools, or public health clinics.

The work is often physically demanding, as dentists have to stand or lean over patients for long periods.

The risk of exposure to infectious diseases is also part of the job, so dentists must follow strict safety protocols.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve unraveled the true essence of being a general dentist.

And guess what?

It’s not just about fixing teeth.

It’s about shaping the future of oral health, one tooth at a time.

With our go-to general dentist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why stop there?

Go a step further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating perfectly tailored job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every tooth is a part of the broader smile.

Let’s build that future. Together.

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