Dentists diagnose and treat teeth and other tissue in the mouth. They also give advice and administer preventative oral care. Most are solo practitioners working four to five days per week in a safe and clean environment.
According to a 2009 salary survey, the median salary for a dentist is $136,303. With the US Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasting employment in the dental profession to grow faster than the average occupation, a career in dentistry is an all-around excellent choice.
The UT Health Science Center San Antonio Dental School was founded in 1970 and graduates over 90 dentists per year. The school boasts 200 dedicated faculty members in 10 fields of study. According to its website, "The Dental School is a dynamic place where students, faculty and staff come together to share knowledge and skills that will benefit in Texas, the U.S. and across the globe."
Getting into dental school is academically challenging and expensive. To attend, prospective students need to have earned a bachelors degree from an accredited university, take the Dental Admissions Test and have taken two years of Biology and one year of English, Physics and Chemistry. You will also need at least two letters of recommendation.
Besides the academic challenges of dental school, another major consideration is the cost. In 2009, the cost for Texas residents to attend The UT Health Science Center San Antonio Dental School was $79,696 in tuition and fees for the four year program. Out of state residents pay $122,896.
While not attending classes or studying, you may want to explore the city of San Antonio. Boasting professional sports teams and several popular tourist attractions, you'll never be without something to do. Whether it's visiting The Alamo or catching a show at Sea World, San Antonio offers something for everyone.
People in San Antonio enjoy an active and affordable lifestyle. The median age in San Antonio is 31.5, housing costs are well below the average for large cities and there is no state income tax.