Dentist Working Conditions

Dentists held about 151,500 jobs in 2014. Some dentists own their own businesses and work alone or with a small staff. Other dentists have partners in their practice, and a few work for more established dentists as associate dentists.

Dentists usually work in office environments, so their physical working conditions are good. Of course, their working conditions innately involve extensive patient interaction, so dentists wear masks, gloves, and safety glasses to protect themselves and their patients from infectious diseases. They also follow safety protocols when handling x-ray equipment that is essential for diagnosing dental disorders.

Most dentists work full time. Working conditions for some dentists include work evenings and weekends to meet their patients' needs. The number of hours worked varies greatly among dentists. It is common for dentists to continue in part-time practice well beyond the usual retirement age.

Source: U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2016-17 Edition

Find additional occupational information below:

Dentist Duties
Dentist Work Conditions
Dentist Employment
Dentist Training
Dentist Job Outlook
Dentist Earnings