Many thanks to the author, Dr. Kristy Gretzula DDS, for submitting this article to DMDstudent.com. Dr. Gretzula is a graduate of NYU College of Dentistry and more information about her practice can be found at her website.
After years of preparation, graduation has finally arrived and you are ready to enter the professional world of dentistry. While some new graduates go on to specialty training or become a practice owner,most begin their careers as associate dentists in established practices.
In order to find a job that will be the right fit, it is important to assess not only yourself and your skillsbut also what type of practice will best suit your needs. For example, if you need to build up yourspeed, working for a dental chain or other high volume practice may be for you. If you are looking for amentor or an environment to hone your treatment planning, a larger group practice may be the best fit.
When you are ready to begin your job search, try to decide if you are looking to settle down andestablish yourself in a particular area or if you are open to relocation. Keep in mind that many practicesutilize non-compete contracts that may prevent you from practicing within a particular distance fromthe office. Some areas are oversaturated with dentists. If too much competition exists, the practicemay have to invest a large amount in advertising or not have enough patient flow to afford to keep anassociate dentist. You will be out of a job in no time. A common standard in dentistry is to allow for 1dentist per 2000 people. For example, if you are from State College, PA and your spouse is from theChicago suburbs, the windy city may yield more opportunity.
A clean, short resume will give you the best chance of securing an interview. Just because you have adental degree does not ensure you will receive a call when applying for a job. Take some time to list anyresearch, publications and experience (even if it is volunteer work). Every dental graduate knows how toprep crowns and fill teeth. An owner is looking for an associate to increase profit. Special competenciesthat set you apart from other graduates need to be highlighted. Molar Endodontics, surgical placementof implants or Invisalign Certification are just a few skills that will make you more appealing as acandidate. Be careful to only list procedures you are comfortable doing without the clinic instructorstanding over you. Omit your hobbies and personal interests. Save those for your conversation duringthe interview.
Once you have polished and circulated your resume, you are ready for interviewing. Go on everyinterview you can as it can help you network and meet other professionals. It never hurts to have aconversation as it helps sharpen your interviewing skills, builds your confidence and eases your tension.Strong interviewing takes practice. Dress cleanly and professional. You will be a reflection of theowner, so look your best. Attention to detail is important in dentistry and should not be ignored in yourappearance. The owner of the practice has spent time building the business. He or she does not wanttheir valuable patients interacting with a disheveled individual. Be courteous and polite, the goal is toget an offer even if you do not accept it. After the interview, a thank you letter is appropriate so besure to get the names and emails of everyone you spoke with. If you are not interested, communicatethat with the doctor in a professional, timely way. No one gets upset if you are honest and state thatit is not the right fit. However, ignoring someone after they spent time interviewing you is extremelydisrespectful. The dental world is small, no need to burn a bridge before you start your career.
Your first job does not need to be perfect and may not be your “dream job” but it should provide you anopportunity to advance your career and most importantly provide you with satisfaction and pride.
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