Dental Surgeons - Working Conditions

In a typical work setting, dentists:

Almost always work as part of a larger work group or team.
Have a high level of social contact. Dentists work constantly with patients or coworkers.
Communicate on a daily basis by telephone and in person. They write letters, memos, and e-mails, but less frequently.
Are substantially responsible for the health and safety of their patients.
[ More ]
Are substantially responsible for the work done by hygienists and assistants.
May sometimes be placed in conflict situations in which patients may rude or unpleasant to interact with.

Always work indoors.
Often wear a special uniform or lab coat.
Nearly always wear gloves and protective glasses.
Are exposed on a daily basis to the diseases and infections carried by patients.
[ More ]
Are sometimes exposed to contaminants.
Are sometimes exposed to radiation when performing patient x-rays.
Work physically close to patients, usually within inches.
Are sometimes exposed to loud or distracting sounds and noise levels.

Must fully complete and be exact in their work. Any errors could cause their patients to experience pain.
Repeat the same physical and mental activities.
Make decisions on a daily basis that greatly affect their patients.
Make nearly all their decisions independently.
[ More ]
Set nearly all their daily tasks and goals without speaking to someone else first.
Work in a moderately competitive atmosphere where daily and weekly deadlines must be met.

May work 40 hours a week. Some work more, especially dentists starting new practices.
May work evenings and weekends to meet patients’ needs.
May work part time or full time. Some continue to work part time past the usual retirement age.