I was recently asked why I chose dentistry as a career option! As dentists, this is one of the most common questions we get asked by patients, staff, friends, family, etc. My answer to this question has essentially been the same.
Why I Wanted to Become a Dentist
Working with My Hands
Since I was a kid, I’ve always loved working with my hands, and I’ve always been a tactile learner.
From a young age, I knew I had to choose a profession that involved working with my hands.
Interacting with Others
As I grew older, I realized that I also really like interacting with people which drew me to healthcare as a career option.
I loved the ability to interact with patients of all ages and work towards a solution together to reach their goals whether that be putting them out of pain or enhancing their smile and self-confidence as a result.
Lifelong Learning
There’s also no secret that I’m a nerd and love being a lifelong learner. Dentistry is a unique career option that combines my love of doing procedures, interacting and forging lifelong relationships with my patients, and always learning! I’m so grateful every day that I chose this profession.
My Top 5 Reasons to Become a Dentist
In summary, while there are a million reasons why I chose this rewarding profession, here are my top 5:
The ability to positively contribute and make a difference in the public’s oral and overall systemic health while enhancing their confidence and quality of life!
Being able to build meaningful lifelong relationships with patients and being there from new patient exam/ diagnosis to treatment planning to executing treatment and beyond! I love being there for my patients every single step of the way!
I have always LOVED working with my hands and I can’t imagine a profession where I wouldn’t get to do procedures all day! Being a dentist, I get to do procedures 90% of the day while the rest is spent doing consults, care calls, and documentation.
The opportunity to be a lifelong learner. It’s no secret that I am a huge nerd Dentistry is an evolving profession and there are always going to be new technologies and more efficient ways to serve our patients. I love the challenge that comes with having to keep up to date with the advances in dentistry!
Work/ life balance and the great autonomy and lifestyle that comes with being able to choose your work days/ hours
Is Dentistry Right for You?
Are you trying to decide if dentistry is the right career path for you? Here are some questions you can ask!
Are you passionate about healthcare and advancing people’s oral health?
Do you love interacting with others?
Are you a team player?
Do you enjoy working with your hands?
Can you stay focused for extended periods of time?
Are you studious and love learning?
If you answer yes to these questions, then dentistry may just be the perfect profession for you!
You just have to try your best and work hard and as with any challenges, they’ll provide
you with an opportunity to grow!
What are your reasons for choosing this profession?
Let me know in the comments below!
~Rojin Schmitt, DMD @doctorschmitt