I am going to be a junior in HS, and I am trying to figure out whether I should be an orthodontist or go into biotech or business. I am leaning towards an orthodontist, since they get to make people confident about themselves by fixing their teeth, they make $$$$$$$$ and they have the potential to begin a practice, which is practically owning a business (one of my life goals). The only concern is that I’ve heard dental school is insane and the DAT is insane. I just want some input from people experiencing this and telling me if it’s worth it. Also, what can I do in HS to get early experience?
Thanks!
Don’t go into something just for the money or if it’s “easy”. I suggest you choose something you are highly interested and despite the difficulty, you will continue to work at it. If you are going to spend the next 4 to 8 years of schooling, better do it on something you look forward to doing.
Dentistry is a hard career for someone just in it for the money. Shadow your dentist and orthodontist to get more perspective.
It’s a little early to pick a career, especially in the dental field.
No. You’re likely to make more money in biotech. Owning a dental practice is extremely stressful and expensive. There is a great deal of competition from corporate dentistry which is taking over many smaller private practices. I highly recommend you interview or job shadow orthodontists before making a decision. Be sure to interview at least one person who has been in practice for 20 plus years. In addition, four years of dental school will run you between $400,000 and $500,000, not to mention the additional time involved in becoming a specialist.