O*NET Career Intelligence

Dentists, General

SOC 29-1021.00

Examine, diagnose, and treat diseases, injuries, and malformations of teeth and gums. May treat diseases of nerve, pulp, and other dental tissues affecting oral hygiene and retention of teeth. May fit dental appliances or provide preventive care.

Zone 5 Healthcare Practitioners and Technical

Skills

Knowledge

Job Zone

Green

Top Skills 8

Critical Thinking

4.1

Judgment and Decision Making

4.1

Reading Comprehension

4.0

Active Listening

4.0

Speaking

4.0

Monitoring

4.0

Complex Problem Solving

4.0

Active Learning

3.9

Knowledge Areas 8

Medicine and Dentistry

5.0

Customer and Personal Service

4.2

English Language

3.9

Biology

3.5

Psychology

3.4

Education and Training

3.3

Administration and Management

3.2

Personnel and Human Resources

3.2

Key Tasks

1Use masks, gloves, and safety glasses to protect patients and self from infectious diseases.

2Examine teeth, gums, and related tissues, using dental instruments, x-rays, or other diagnostic equipment, to evaluate dental health, diagnose diseases or abnormalities, and plan appropriate treatments.

3Administer anesthetics to limit the amount of pain experienced by patients during procedures.

4Use dental air turbines, hand instruments, dental appliances, or surgical implements.

5Formulate plan of treatment for patient's teeth and mouth tissue.

Also Known As

Associate Dentist Dental Intern Dental Officer Dental Surgery Doctor (DDS) Dentist Dentist/Owner Doctor Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) Endodontist