Thinking About a Career in Dentistry? Central PA Has Opportunities!
So, you’re thinking about a career in dentistry? That’s awesome! It’s a rewarding field with a lot of variety. And if you’re in Central PA, you’re in luck – there are plenty of opportunities in counties like Cumberland, Perry, York, and Dauphin.
Let’s break down some of the most common dental careers and see if any spark your interest:
1. Dental Assistant:
What you’ll do: Dental assistants are the backbone of the dental office. You’ll assist dentists with patient care, prepare treatment rooms, take X-rays, and provide patient education.
Why you might love it: It’s a hands-on role with a great team environment. Plus, you get to contribute directly to patient health and smiles!
Where to find jobs: Look in dental offices throughout Central PA, especially in towns like Carlisle, Mechanicsburg, Harrisburg, and York.
2. Dental Hygienist:
What you’ll do: Dental hygienists play a crucial role in preventing oral disease. You’ll clean teeth, take X-rays, apply sealants, and educate patients on proper oral hygiene.
Why you might love it: You’ll make a real difference in people’s lives by improving their oral health. Plus, you’ll have a good work-life balance with competitive salaries.
Where to find jobs: Search for openings in dental offices, periodontist offices, and even some public health settings.
3. Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA):
What you’ll do: EFDAs have additional training and can perform more advanced duties, such as applying sealants, taking impressions, and even assisting with some minor procedures.
Why you might love it: You’ll have a wider range of responsibilities and a higher earning potential.
Where to find jobs: Look for opportunities in dental offices that utilize the skills of EFDAs.
4. Dentist:
What you’ll do: As a dentist, you’ll diagnose and treat oral diseases, perform a variety of procedures (from fillings to extractions), and provide comprehensive patient care.
Why you might love it: It’s a challenging and rewarding career that allows you to make a significant impact on people’s lives.
Where to find jobs: You can open your own private practice, work in a group practice, or even join a community health center.
5. Treatment Coordinator:
What you’ll do: Treatment coordinators act as patient liaisons, explaining treatment plans, discussing financial options, and helping patients understand their insurance coverage.
Why you might love it: You’ll have a strong focus on patient education and communication, building strong relationships with patients.
Where to find jobs: Look for positions in cosmetic dentistry offices, orthodontist offices, and other specialized dental practices.
Ready to take the next step?
Research dental programs in Central PA: Many community colleges and universities offer programs in dental assisting, dental hygiene, and more.
Network with dental professionals: Attend local dental association meetings or job fairs to connect with people in the field.
Start your job search: Utilize online job boards, indeed.com, and local newspapers to find open positions.
I hope this gives you a good overview of some exciting dental career options in Central PA. Good luck with your job search!
