Dentist
Keeps smiles healthy for a lifetime.
Strengths this career uses
This profile uses technical thinking, empathy, problem solving — add your child to compare it with their real signals.
Draw a labeled diagram of the teeth
About 20 minutes. No special gear — just curiosity.
Videos for kids
Curated YouTube picks that show what dentists really do — kid-friendly.
Technical Thinking
Dentist · technical thinking in action
Opens curated YouTube results
Empathy
Dentist · empathy in action
Opens curated YouTube results
Problem Solving
Dentist · problem solving in action
Opens curated YouTube results
Tip: preview videos before sharing — YouTube content changes over time.
What is it?
Dentists prevent, diagnose and treat problems with teeth and gums — combining careful hands, science, and time with patients of all ages.
A typical day might include…
8am clinic setup, morning of cleanings and check-ups, mid-day a small filling or crown, lunch reviewing x-rays, afternoon new-patient exams, end-of-day notes.
They might…
- Examine teeth, gums, and x-rays
- Clean, fill, and repair teeth
- Teach patients how to care for their mouths
- Lead a small clinical team
"I gained knowledge and skill — and, in time, respect."
— Lucy Hobbs Taylor
Helpful subjects
Pay range
$150k–$260k (US, 2024)
Just one factor — not the point.
Gentle reminder
A door, not a destination. Many people change careers 5+ times.