Typical Tasks
Administer general and local anesthetics.
Collaborate with other professionals, such as restorative dentists and orthodontists, to plan treatment.
Evaluate the position of the wisdom teeth to determine whether problems exist currently or might occur in the future.
Remove impacted, damaged, and non-restorable teeth.
Remove tumors and other abnormal growths of the oral and facial regions, using surgical instruments.
A day in the life
What kind of work is this?
Investigative
Studying, Research based work
Realistic
Practical, Physical Work
Social
Working with people
What personality traits do you need to succeed?
Attention to Detail
Integrity
Dependability
Self-Control
Concern for Others
Stress Tolerance
What key skills are needed for this job?
Judgment and Decision Making
Complex Problem Solving
Reading Comprehension
Critical Thinking
Speaking
Active Learning
Expected Knowledge
Medicine and Dentistry
Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
Biology
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Common Activities
Assisting and Caring for Others
Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public
Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
