Dentist occupation

merits & demerits ?

The profession of a Dentist has many advantages! First, it often provides a stable income, and there is a constant demand, which gives a sense of security in the profession. Additionally, through communication with patients, dentists frequently receive gratitude, making their work feel rewarding. Furthermore, having specialized skills allows for the enjoyment of continuously improving one's abilities. However, there can also be long hours of standing and challenges with interpersonal relationships, which may lead to stress.
On the other hand, being a Dentist comes with some disadvantages as well. For example, dentists often witness the pain and anxiety of their patients, which can create a heavy emotional burden. Additionally, during busy periods, work can become hectic, leaving little time for personal life! Because medical errors are not tolerated, dentists must maintain a constant level of tension while performing their duties. Overcoming these challenges may require self-management and stress coping strategies.

Dentist occupation
merits

◎Stable Income

The profession of a dentist is, above all, highly attractive due to its high income! Of course, this varies depending on the region, facility, and years of experience, but in many cases, the annual salary can be quite substantial. The moment you see your skills and expertise acquired through a long path of education translating into solid rewards is one of great fulfillment.

◎Deep Relationships with Patients

As a dentist, you are required not just to provide treatment, but to build a trusting relationship with your patients. Remembering the faces of your regular patients and progressing with their treatment while offering emotional support is a very rewarding aspect of healthcare. Being able to see patients regain their health and bring back their smiles is truly the greatest joy!

◎Specialization and Continuous Learning

Dentists must constantly learn new knowledge and techniques, which leads to a deepening of specialization. With new treatments and tools continually emerging, adapting to them can be challenging, but it is also a moment of personal growth. The evolution of one’s skills can even be described as a kind of pleasure.

◎Flexibility in Work

The way dentists work stands apart from the typical salaryman. By being involved in the management of their clinics, they can choose a work style that fits their lifestyle. Whether working full-time, part-time, or opening their own practice for greater freedom, the ability to make choices according to different life stages is definitely a merit.

◎Contribution to the Community

By working to protect the oral health of many individuals, dentists play an important role in contributing to the community. Healthy teeth are directly linked to a healthy life, so they can contribute to enhancing the quality of life for their patients. Participating in local events also provides further opportunities for communication.

Dentist occupation
demerits

×Physical Burden

Dentists constantly face patients and work for long hours in a forward-leaning position. As a result, they often suffer from chronic back pain and shoulder stiffness. The repetitive hand skills required, which demand the precision of a pencil tip, cannot ignore the fatigue and pain in their hands. It's as if their bodies gradually start to cry out, resembling a sort of occupational illness.

×Mental Stress

Communication with patients can at times be extremely delicate, especially when it comes to those who are fearful. Therefore, the mental pressure can be immeasurable. The success of treatment directly correlates with the patient's reactions, so dentists must always act with a sense of responsibility for the outcomes they achieve.

×Financial Burden

When starting a dental clinic, one must not forget that the initial investment is monumental. To equip the clinic with the latest technology and facilities, millions of yen are required. On top of that, ongoing operational costs and labor expenses create constant financial pressure. There is little room left to spend on hobbies.

×Irregular Working Hours

In today's diverse healthcare landscape, dentists often work very irregular hours. Particularly during holidays, emergency patients may come in, resulting in frequent sacrifices of personal time. If a dentist repeatedly has to cancel plans with friends or time with family, it can lead to emotional exhaustion.

×Patient Calmness

It is not uncommon for patients to feel tense or anxious during treatment, which can hinder smooth procedures. Some patients might suddenly become angry or refuse treatment, making it a significant source of stress to handle each situation. Unless one is mentally strong, it may be difficult to withstand the pressure.


The profession of dentist comes with several advantages. Firstly, one of the major attractions is the stability of income. Additionally, dentists can build deep relationships with their patients, allowing for treatment based on trust. Furthermore, by possessing expertise and continuously learning, they can enhance their skills. In this way, being a dentist is a career that allows for personal growth.

On the other hand, the disadvantages include physical burdens. Long hours of treatment and being forced into unnatural postures can lead to strain on the back and shoulders. Mental stress is also a significant factor. Dentists must deal with patients' fears and anxieties, and sometimes conflicts may arise. Due to these factors, working as a dentist can present challenges that are not easily overcome.

Dentist merits and demerits? [occupation] merideme