Pediatric Dentist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the healthcare sector, the focus on pediatric dentists has never been more critical.

As the field of dentistry advances, the demand for skilled practitioners who can treat, nurture, and protect our children’s oral health grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s genuinely expected from a pediatric dentist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the realm of pediatric dentistry,

You’re in the right place.

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

Let’s dive right into it.

Pediatric Dentist Duties and Responsibilities

Pediatric Dentists are dedicated to the oral health of children from infancy through the teen years.

They have the experience and qualifications to care for a child’s teeth, gums, and mouth throughout the various stages of childhood.

Their daily duties and responsibilities include:

• Evaluating the dental health of patients and identifying oral health issues specific to children
• Providing treatment for oral diseases and conditions like cavities and gum diseases
• Performing dental procedures such as extractions, fillings, and root canal treatment
• Applying dental sealants and fluoride treatments
• Conducting regular check-ups for children to ensure healthy teeth and gums
• Prescribing necessary medication for dental issues and post-surgical care
• Providing education and guidance to parents on children’s oral hygiene
• Providing advice on diet and other factors affecting children’s oral health
• Comforting children during dental procedures and helping them overcome their fear of dental treatments
• Maintaining patient records and documentation

 

Pediatric Dentist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Pediatric Dentist to join our team.

The Pediatric Dentist will provide dental care for infants, children, teenagers, and patients with special needs, offering advice and guidance on taking care of teeth and gums and diet choices that affect oral health.

Our ideal candidate is experienced in providing dental services specifically tailored to the needs of young patients, has a friendly demeanor and the ability to make our patients feel comfortable.

 

Responsibilities

• Diagnosing oral diseases and treating them appropriately.
• Monitoring the development of teeth and jaws.
• Performing dental procedures such as cleanings, extractions, and fillings.
• Providing comprehensive oral health care that includes the assessment, treatment, management, and overall coordination of services related to patients’ oral health needs.
• Interpreting x-rays and diagnostic tests.
• Ensuring safe administration of anesthetics.
• Communicating with parents and caregivers about specific treatments and procedures and overall oral health care.
• Keeping abreast with the latest developments in pediatric dentistry.

 

Qualifications

• DDS or DMD degree from an accredited institution.
• Completion of a Pediatric Dentistry Residency.
• Must have a current dental license for the state in which they wish to practice.
• Must hold a Pediatric Advanced Life Support certification.
• Experience working with children and adolescents.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Compassionate and patient.
• Good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Professional liability insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education credits

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Pediatric Dentist
• Work Environment: Dental office setting. The position may require evening or weekend hours to accommodate patients’ schedules.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Dental Office Manager or the Lead Dentist.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $130,000 minimum to $250,000 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 Pediatric Dentist Do?

Pediatric Dentists are specialized dental professionals who focus on oral health care for children, typically ranging from infants to adolescents.

Their main role involves diagnosing and treating dental issues in children.

They perform routine dental procedures like cleanings, fillings, and extractions using specialized dental equipment designed for children.

They also apply sealants and fluoride treatments to prevent cavities.

Besides treatment, Pediatric Dentists play a crucial role in educating children and their parents about the importance of oral hygiene and the best dental care practices.

They are also trained to manage children’s behavior during dental procedures to ensure a positive and less stressful experience.

This might involve using various techniques to help children feel more comfortable, such as distraction or the use of sedatives in more complex cases.

Pediatric Dentists often work in coordination with pediatricians and general dentists to provide a comprehensive health care approach for a child.

They also monitor the development of children’s teeth to ensure they are growing properly, and can refer patients to orthodontists if necessary.

In addition, Pediatric Dentists are trained to diagnose oral conditions associated with diseases such as diabetes, congenital heart defect, asthma, hay fever, and attention deficit/ hyperactivity disorder.

They are also skilled in the care of special needs patients.

 

Pediatric Dentist Qualifications and Skills

A proficient pediatric dentist should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Possessing a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) degree from an accredited dental school.
• Having completed a pediatric dentistry residency program, obtaining specialized training in treating dental issues in children, from infants to adolescents.
• Having knowledge of child psychology to work with children who may be anxious or scared of dental procedures.
• Displaying excellent interpersonal and communication skills to explain dental procedures and care in a child-friendly manner.
• Showing a high degree of manual dexterity and precise hand-eye coordination for performing delicate dental procedures.
• Utilizing problem-solving skills to diagnose and treat a variety of pediatric dental issues.
• Demonstrating empathy and patience while dealing with young patients, creating a comfortable and stress-free environment.
• Having the ability to educate children and their parents about proper oral hygiene habits and preventative dental care.

 

Pediatric Dentist Experience Requirements

Pediatric Dentists typically begin their career journey with a bachelor’s degree in a science-related field, followed by attending a dental school accredited by the American Dental Association (ADA), which is a 4-year program.

After successful completion of dental school, they then specialize in pediatric dentistry through a 2 to 3-year residency program.

The residency program provides the necessary experience in child psychology, growth and development, child-related pharmacology, child pathology, child-related oral trauma, orthodontics, preventive dentistry, and the treatment of children with special needs.

This hands-on experience is crucial for aspiring pediatric dentists.

On completion of their residency, pediatric dentists are usually equipped with the requisite experience to begin their professional careers.

However, some healthcare institutions may require additional years of experience.

Pediatric dentists with more than 5 years of experience may have developed their skills in pediatric dental surgery, orthodontics, and anesthesia, making them suitable for more advanced roles.

They may also be ready for managerial roles within a dental practice or hospital setting.

All pediatric dentists are expected to continuously update their skills and knowledge through continuing education programs, to keep up with the ever-evolving dentistry field.

 

Pediatric Dentist Education and Training Requirements

To become a Pediatric Dentist, individuals must first earn a bachelor’s degree.

While there are no specific requirements for the major, courses in biology, chemistry, and health can be beneficial for further stages.

After obtaining a bachelor’s degree, candidates must take the Dental Admissions Test (DAT) to apply for dental school.

To become a dentist, one must then complete a doctoral degree in dental surgery (DDS) or dental medicine (DMD).

Dental school usually takes four years to complete and includes both classroom and clinical training.

Once qualified as a dentist, individuals who wish to specialize in pediatrics must complete a two to three-year residency program in pediatric dentistry.

This program provides specialized training in treating dental issues specific to infants, children, teenagers, and children with special needs.

After completing the residency, Pediatric Dentists can seek board certification from the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry (ABPD).

This involves a rigorous examination process, but it helps in enhancing their professional credibility and standing.

Continuing education is also important as it keeps the Pediatric Dentist updated with the latest developments in pediatric dentistry.

They are often required to earn a specific number of continuing education credits every year to maintain their licensure and certification.

 

Pediatric Dentist Salary Expectations

A Pediatric Dentist earns an average salary of $178,260 (USD) per year.

The salary can vary depending on factors such as years of experience, specialization, geographical location, and the type of practice.

 

Pediatric Dentist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a pediatric dentist need?

A pediatric dentist needs a mix of technical and interpersonal skills.

They should have in-depth knowledge of oral health care for children, from infancy through adolescence, and the ability to perform dental procedures with precision.

Good hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills are essential.

Additionally, they should have excellent communication and behavior management skills to create a friendly and relaxed environment for children.

 

Do pediatric dentists need a specialized degree?

Yes, pediatric dentists need a specialized degree.

After completing dental school, they must undertake an additional two to three years of specialty training in pediatric dentistry.

This training equips them with the skills and knowledge necessary to meet the unique dental needs of infants, children, and adolescents, including those with special healthcare needs.

 

What should you look for in a pediatric dentist resume?

On a pediatric dentist’s resume, look for a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree, followed by specialized pediatric dentistry training from an accredited program.

Board certification from the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry can also be a valuable credential.

Other things to look out for are experience working with children, familiarity with behavior management techniques, and any additional skills such as fluency in multiple languages.

 

What qualities make a good pediatric dentist?

A good pediatric dentist should be patient and compassionate, as working with children requires a gentle touch and a calming demeanor.

They should be adept at communicating with both children and parents, explaining dental issues, treatments, and preventive care in a clear, understandable manner.

They should also be detail-oriented, able to spot potential dental issues early, and creative in motivating children to maintain good oral health habits.

 

Is it difficult to hire pediatric dentists?

Hiring pediatric dentists can be challenging due to the high level of specialization and training required for the role.

The pool of qualified candidates can be smaller than for general dentists, and pediatric dentists often have many employment opportunities available to them, meaning employers may need to offer competitive salaries and benefits to attract top talent.

 

Conclusion

So there we have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of being a pediatric dentist.

And guess what?

It’s not just about cleaning teeth.

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

With our go-to pediatric dentist job description template and real-life examples, you’re all set to make a move.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to precision-crafted listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every tooth you clean is part of a bigger picture.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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