I am a Orthodontist in the state of Pennsylvania. I went to University of Pittsburgh and got into the pre-med program. I progressed verrry excessivly. I only had to stay in college for 3 years. Some people even stay for only 2 in the pre-med program (for dentistry). This is only if you are VERY smart. I then went on to the University of Pittsburgh Dental School. I was originally planning to be a general dentist but since I only had to do 2 years of undergraduate school I decided to do a specialty. I went on to 4 years of Dental School...After these 4 years I was able to practice general dentistry,but I decided to do an extra 2 years of fellowship to become an orthodontist. I am now an orthodontist for over 15 years. I love my job and I hope you will too.
Here is the breakdown:
4 years Undergrad
4 Years Dental school
Take all your exams and excel in all of your classes and you should be good. In undergrad aim to get at least a 3.7+ each period. It is very competitive to get into dental school. Get good grades in math, chemistry,biology.. ect... |
You will end up making good money if you have a good practice. I am currently in private practice. I am not afraid or embaressed to show my salary.
My first year I got only $74,000.
Second year I moved up to about $90,000
Third year I purchased an old doctors office http://andreacgmm.buzznet.com/photos/default/?id=68752081 with all his patients. I started making $150,000 +/- for my next 5 years.
I started to be well known in the area and made close to $200,000 a year. It is now my 17th year and I make $260,000 a year. This is after all of my insurances and what I pay my employees. My wife is a dental hygentist and makes about $75,000 a year. My friend who I went to dental school with is now a Maxillofacial Surgeon and has been practicing for also about 15 years and he makes close to $350,000 a year. There are many specialties to chose from in dentistry but if you choose to be a general dentist you should not get your DMD but get your DDS. With your DDS you can practice general surgery and hold both a DMD and a DDS. Your salary breakdown will probably be as follow:
1-5 years- $75,0000-$150,000
5-10 years- $150,000-$175,000
10+- $200,000+++
My uncle was a dentist and specialized in. General Dentistry, Implants, General Surgery, Cosmetic Surgery. He was the top doctor in the area and made about $700,000 a year after 25 years of practice.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zt39MNESXXg
