How much does a dentist make?

In the United States, dentists' pay varies with location, hours worked, and years in practice. Specialty and employer setting can matter too; dentists work in private offices, government, and other settings.

Examine, diagnose, and treat diseases, injuries, and malformations of teeth and gums. May treat diseases of nerve, pulp, and other dental tissues affecting oral hygiene and retention of teeth. May fit dental appliances or provide preventive care. Excludes “Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons” (29-1022), “Orthodontists” (29-1023), “Prosthodontists” (29-1024), and “Dentists, All Other Specialists” (29-1029).

What's a typical day like?

A dentist checks teeth and gums, reviews X-rays, and decides what care is needed. They may numb a tooth and fill a cavity, give brushing or diet advice, and—in private practice—help manage staff and supplies.

In the U.S., students usually earn a bachelor's degree, take the DAT, then earn a DDS or DMD in dental school with supervised patient care. Pass your state's written and clinical exams to get licensed; general dentists need no extra residency.

Graduate degree or long training (preparation level 5 of 5)

Good for people who like figuring things out and building and doing.

Dentists check more than teeth: changes in the mouth can sometimes be early warning signs of illness elsewhere in the body.

The US figure is the median and the Japan figure is the average, so it's not a perfect comparison. Prices differ too.