Expert: Jeff Dalin DDS - 6/5/2004

Question
Hello, Dr.Jeff Dalin
      My name is Sabrina and I  am a Junior at Ramona High School; we where assigned a carrer project, where we have too  research a career. I choose to research becoming a Dentist. I was wondering if you wouldnt mind answering a few question for me?It would be greatly apperciated if you could get back to me as soon as possible.
           Sincerly, Sabrina

1.Number of years working in this career?
2.What do you most like about this job?
3.How did you become interested in this career?
4.Briefly describe your job responsibilities?
5.What education and training were necessary for this job?
6.What do you most like about your job?
7.What is most challenging about your job?
8.What types of personality traits or skills are most helpful in thsi career? Why?
9.What are some of the benefits and "perks" of this job?
10.How many hours do you work a week?
11.What is the approximate salary range for your job?
12. Would you recommend this job? Why or why not?

Answer
Hi Sabrina,
I will try to answer your questions...
1) # of years in my career: almost 24
2) like the most: helping people
3) why interested: my dad was a dentist
4) job responsibilities: take care of my patients' needs: fillings, crowns, cleanings, etc...I also run the practice
5) education: undergraduate degree in chemistry then 4 years in dental school
6) like most: helping people...make them comfortable and happy
7) challenging parts: working on small objects (teeth) in small places (the mouth)
8) personality traits: you have to be patient and be very careful about your work
9) benefits of job: you are your own boss
10) hours working: i work 34 hours one week and 39 hours the next week and so on
11) salary ranges: i think the average salary of a dentist is around $120,000 a year
12) would i recommend this: ABSOLUTELY!!! it is a great profession to be a part of

I hope this answers your questions.

Jeff Dalin, DDS