Endodontists
Outlook
Employment Prospects
Employers
The American Association of Endodontists has more than 8,000 members. Like general dentists, most endodontists are in private practice. They may have a solo practice or work in a group practice with other dentists. Dentists serving in the military treat members of the military and their families. The U.S. Public Health Service also employs dentists to provide care or conduct research. Endodontists may also teach full time or part time in dental schools. Hospitals employ dentists to treat hospitalized patients.
Starting Out
After completing dental school and an advanced training program in endodontology, most endodontists either start their own practices or join an established practice. While many dentists choose to have their own practices, start-up costs can be steep: New dentists often need to borrow money to buy or lease office space and buy expensive equipment.
Advancement Prospects
Endodontists in private practice advance their careers by building their reputation among the general dentists who refer patients to specialists. To establish a good reputation, it is important to communicate effectively and coordinate treatment with general dentists.
Endodontists who teach at dental schools may advance in academic rank and eventually chair the department of periodontology.
Experienced endodontists and endodontic researchers can become more prominent through professional activities such as writing scientific books and articles and being active in professional organizations such as the American Association of Endodontists.
Tips for Entry
Visit http://careercenter.ada.org and https://www.aae.org/specialty/careers/career-center for job listings.
Join the American Association of Endodontists and the American Dental Association to receive reduced rates on association events, access membership-only research, take advantage of networking opportunities, and learn more about education and careers.
Read the Journal of Endodontics and ENDODONTICS: Colleagues for Excellence (both available at https://www.aae.org/specialty/publications-research) to learn more about endodontics.
Become certified by the American Board of Endodontics in order to show employers that youve met the highest standards established by your industry.