How much does a dentist earn?

Are you thinking about taking a dentistry course, but still lack information to decide for good? Well, if that's your case, don't worry, because this article aims to clarify all your doubts.

First, it is important to reinforce that the profession is very well known and attracts the attention of many young people who want to enter the job market on the right foot.

If you've never been to a dentist, it's very likely that you know a professional in the area, which makes the profession's visibility in the job market even more evident. Well, the reasoning is logical: if there are qualified professionals, there is demand.

To keep you up to date with all the information about the profession, we will explain about its origin, fields of activity, career, job market, average salary and much more. Check out:

Dentistry: what is this science all about?

The word dentistry is of Greek origin and means the study of teeth. This science, focused on oral health, explores several subjects, including the prevention of disorders related to the stomatognathic system, composed of the structures of the face (mouth and neck).

Dental Career

To practice the profession of dentist, it is necessary to have completed a higher education course in dentistry, the duration of which average is five years, and still have professional registration at the Regional Council of Dentistry of the state where Act.

According to the Federal Council of Dentistry, professionals can specialize in 23 highly recognized areas, including: pediatric dentistry, geriatric dentistry, endodontics, restorative dentistry, orthodontics, forensic dentistry, oral pathology, public health, dental prosthesis, temporomandibular disorders, among others.

After completing any of the specializations, the dentist will be able to work in the job market with the same professional registration.

Job market

For those who dedicate themselves and make a difference in this scenario, the market is very favorable. To get an idea, the dentistry course is among the most competitive in the entrance exam and the salaries offered to the professional are among the highest in Brazil.

In the labor market, the professional can work in dental clinics or companies related to the field, in public health services and in the dissemination and commercialization of services and products.

In addition, you can work as a freelancer (liberal professional), take part in public service examinations or even pursue a university career. However, according to the Federal Council of Dentistry, most dentists choose to open their own business.

How much does the professional earn?

In the case of dentists working in private establishments, the base salary is R$ 2,370, which corresponds to three minimum wages per month. In addition to the mentioned remuneration, the dentist also receives an additional 10% to 40% for unhealthy work and other benefits and gratuities, for a weekly workload of 20 hours.

For those who work in their own practice, there is no fixed salary. However, the council of the category establishes a table of fees for various procedures. In the Federal District, for example, the initial visit to a dentist costs BRL 95.12, while Molar Endodontic Treatment reaches BRL 562.68.

But, in any case, it is important to reinforce that the remuneration offered to the professional varies a lot from region to region. Brasília, Mato Grosso do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Acre and São Paulo are among the states that offer the best remuneration for dentists per hour worked.

According to a survey carried out by the Institute of Applied Economic Research (IPEA), released in 2013, the average salary of a dentist is R$ 5,400 per month, for a weekly regime of 38 hours. During the specializations carried out by the professional, salary proposals become more promising and the career more attractive.