Dental care is one of the most lucrative career paths in healthcare. Dental courses are now pursued by an increasing number of medical students. In order to become a successful dentist one must undertake an accredited and recognized dental education program. A wide range of dental courses and degree programs are available at all levels of education. There are even a number of specialized diplomas, certifications, and continuing education programs that dental professionals can pursue to stay up-to-date.
Nature of Dental Courses
Dental programs begin with basic courses like biochemistry, physiology, and microbiology. Once the students have a solid grasp on these general dental courses they move on to more specific fields of dentistry such as oral radiology, dental surgery, and dental ethics. The areas of study keep changing depending on the level of the degree. Dental courses are available at various levels of education starting from a diploma course to a doctorate. However, prior medical knowledge is a prerequisite for dental education especially for a bachelor’s and masters in dental care.
Online Dental Courses
Students can also take up online dental courses if they do not wish to enroll for a regular dental school. There are many accredited universities and colleges in the US that are offering online dental courses. These courses are especially beneficial for those who are already a part of the profession but are either looking to increase their knowledge in their own specific fields or wish to explore new areas of specialization. Online dental courses are also suitable for students applying for a doctorate or bachelor in dentistry, dental surgery or other specializations because it costs less as compared to a regular school and saves them a lot of time as well. Not just that but the students are also facilitated with the use of live video conferencing, live lectures and online textbooks. Besides the degree courses in dental care, short dental courses and seminars can also be taken online by the experts who wish to increase their knowledge base without having to take out extra time from their demanding jobs.
With the exception of a few online universities, a Dental Admission Test is mandatory before applying for any kind of dental course. A good score in these tests will however increase the chances of landing into a well reputed and recognized university.
What are the benefits of taking dental courses especially those related to my career?
Dentists not only in the US but all over the world are the most highly paid healthcare professionals. On an average a dentist is expected to earn $120,000 per annum. But even those who have not acquired higher education in the field and have just completed their certifications and diplomas can choose from various career opportunities such as dentist assistants, lab assistants, hygienists and etc. These professional are although not as highly paid as dentists; they still earn an estimated $30,000 to $50,000 per annum. Hence the dental courses offer endless career growth and opportunities for example one can be associated with a public hospital, own a private clinic and can also be a part of the world recognized organizations like The American Dental Association and many other such organizations.
States with the highest employment level in this occupation:
State | Employment | Employment per thousand jobs | Location quotient | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage |
|---|
| California | 1660 | 0.11 | 1.26 | 18.13 | 37720 |
| Florida | 1130 | 0.14 | 1.68 | 17.97 | 37370 |
| Illinois | 960 | 0.16 | 1.92 | 17.9 | 37240 |
| Texas | 760 | 0.07 | 0.78 | 16.62 | 34570 |
| New York | 650 | 0.07 | 0.85 | 20.12 | 41840 |
Source: bls.gov
Frequently Asked Question(s)
Q:Most of the dental assistant programs in chicago only teach classes in the morning. Is there a way I can complete a course and still keep my day job?
A:If you are looking to attend dental assistant programs in Chicago and still continue your day job, you should do what a large number of working professionals who want to continue their education are doing. Go for an online education through distance learning. You will find a large number of online dental schools that will provide the course you wish to attend and you can easily take the classes from home at a time that fits into your work schedule.
Q:While going through online Dental Technology courses, I came across Dental Materials/Expanded Functions course. What is it about?
A:You often come across the reference of various programs and course relevant to the field in a search like online Dental Technology courses. Dental Materials/Expanded Functions course can be a part of various Dental Hygiene related programs. In this course the students get to study about chemical and physical properties of dental materials.
Q:Can you give me information regarding dental lab technician online training?
A:To get dental lab technician training you can opt for an associate's degree or a certification that must be accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association. The aim of such programs is to familiarize you with subjects such as safety guidelines, laboratory equipment use, plaster use denture and bridge construction. Understanding of anatomy, science and math is also required.
Q:Can NJ dentists take online courses?
A:Yes, it is possible for NJ dentists to take online courses in dentistry. However, it is important that you select accredited dentistry programs for quality of education and better career prospects. Online programs also require more self management and consistency on your part to acquire the crucial knowledge and skills.
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