Public Health Dentist
Public Health Dentists are licensed dentists that focus on improving the overall oral health of a community. They use their expertise in oral health to develop and implement programs that help prevent and treat dental disease.
Education & Training
In order to become a Public Health Dentist, a doctoral degree from an accredited dental school is required.. In addition, most states require Public Health dentists to complete a one-year residency in Public Health Dentistry.
Skills & Knowledge
In addition to clinical dental skills, Public Health Dentists need to have a strong understanding of public health principles and epidemiology. They also need to be able to communicate effectively with a variety of audiences and work well in a team setting.
Where Public Health Dentists Work
Public Health Dentists work in a variety of settings, including:
- Government agencies
- Nonprofit organizations
- Community health centers
- Schools
- Private practice
Projects for Public Health Dentists
Public Health Dentists may work on a variety of projects, including:
- Developing and implementing oral health education programs
- Providing dental care to underserved populations
- Conducting research on oral health issues
- Advocating for policies that promote oral health
Challenges
Public Health Dentists face a number of challenges, including: