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How to Become a Dentist: Australian Careers in Dentistry

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What is a Dentist?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Dentist?

A dentist diagnoses and treats diseases, injuries, and problems of the teeth, gums, and mouth. They work in private practices, hospitals, community health centres, and schools. Most dentists in Australia work in private practice. This career blends science, hands-on skill, and daily patient care.

Dentists check patients, read X-rays, and create treatment plans. They do fillings, extractions, root canals, crowns, and cleans. Fitting dentures, implants, and braces is also part of the role. Teaching patients about good oral care is a key part of every visit.

Dentists lead a team that includes dental hygienists, assistants, and therapists. Good teamwork and clear talk keep a practice running well. Some dentists choose to specialise in braces, gum care, oral surgery, or children’s dentistry. Specialising means extra training after the main degree.

Dentistry is a stable career with strong demand across Australia. Future demand is rated ‘very strong’ by YourCareer (Australian Government, 2025). Around 14,200 dentists work in Australia, with numbers growing each year. This job suits people who enjoy precision, problem-solving, and helping others.

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Career snapshots For Dentists

Dentistry has very strong future demand in Australia (YourCareer, Australian Government, 2025). Around 14,200 dentists are currently employed nationally. AIHW data (2025) shows 19,499 dentists were registered in Australia in 2023, with the workforce growing steadily.

The average salary is around $120,000 a year (PayScale, 2026), with experienced practitioners earning more. The typical dentist is 39 years old, women make up 49% of the profession, and about 48% work full-time. Low unemployment and strong demand make this a stable and rewarding career choice.

What will I do?

Dentists are core members of Australia’s healthcare system. They diagnose, treat, and prevent oral health problems for patients of all ages. The role mixes hands-on clinical work with patient education and team leadership. Below is a list of common tasks dentists perform.

  • Diagnosing dental disease: using X-rays, salivary tests, and medical histories to find oral health problems
  • Providing preventive care: giving fluoride treatments, periodontal care, and oral health advice to patients
  • Delivering restorative care: performing fillings, crowns, bridges, implants, and repairs to damaged or decayed teeth
  • Conducting oral surgery: carrying out biopsies and other minor procedures, and prescribing medications
  • Performing orthodontic treatment: managing braces and other devices to straighten teeth
  • Restoring oral function: fitting removable and fixed prostheses such as dentures and implants
  • Identifying systemic disease: spotting signs of conditions such as diabetes that show in the mouth
  • Educating patients: teaching proper brushing, flossing, and oral care habits
  • Leading a dental team: overseeing hygienists, dental assistants, and other dental staff

What skills do I need?

A career as a dentist calls for a mix of technical skill, clinical know-how, and strong people skills. Dentists must be able to read X-rays, do physical exams, and take patient histories to find problems. They work in tight spaces, so steady hands and sharp eyesight are key. Good knowledge of oral health, dental drugs, and materials supports safe, effective care.

Clear talk helps patients feel at ease, especially those who feel nervous at the dentist. Dentists also need leadership skills to guide their team each day. Business skills matter for those who run their own practice. Keeping up with new techniques and tools is vital throughout a dental career.

Skills/attributes

  • Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination
  • Attention to detail
  • Diagnostic reasoning
  • Strong communication skills
  • Empathy and compassion
  • Ability to manage patient anxiety
  • Team leadership and collaboration
  • Knowledge of oral anatomy and dental procedures
  • Patient education skills
  • Time management and organisation
  • Critical thinking and problem-solving
  • Commitment to ongoing professional development
  • Business management skills (for practice owners)
  • Calm under pressure
  • Familiarity with dental technology and software

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About the author

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.