Dental Careers

A Career in Caring

Selecting a career path is one of the most challenging decisions you will make. One of the benefits of considering a career in dental care is that you have several options – from how much education you wish to obtain to what schedule you’d like to work. The dental team typically consists of dentists, dental hygienists, dental assistants and dental laboratory technicians. Click on any one of those listed below for lots more information, including educational programs in Minnesota.

Why consider a career in dentistry? Ask a member of the Minnesota Dental Association and he or she will likely to tell you that it is a rewarding career that offers the opportunity to serve people by improving their oral health and, often, the way they feel about their smile. Dentist Dr. John Nei said it is the "melding of the healing sciences, with a bit of artistic flair: that makes his career choice fulfilling on a day-to-day basis.

"Early on in high school, I decided dentistry was the right vocation to pursue," Nei said. "It seemed to satisfy my requirements for social commitment to helping others, while satisfying my need to secure a stable, viable lifestyle for my family and myself. As I’ve told students, the profession of dentistry has always sustained the career goals I set for myself early in life."

Another important reason to consider a career in dentistry is market demand. There is a great need for all members of the dental care team in Minnesota. Employment opportunities are very good.

This section of the MDA web site gives you access to a wealth of information about each type of dental professional, as well as links to additional resources. For further assistance, contact the MDA office at 612-767-8400 or 800-950-DENT.