The secret is out: You have the best job in America.

U.S. News and World Report has released their annual "100 Best Jobs" review, where they evaluate considerations such as growth potential, income and lifestyle. Dentist comes in at number one.

This should not really be a surprise to anyone, as dentistry has consistently been ranked at or near the top of career choices on lists like this for a long time. What is particularly encouraging, especially for young dentists, is that this shows no sign of changing.

In a companion article, U.S. News did an analysis where they forecast the best jobs of 2020, and once again dentistry is right there. According to the article:

It's well known that the aging of the baby boomers will require more caregivers in many specialties. Some healthcare jobs tend to be low paying, with a lot of workers flocking to what are supposed to be "recession-proof" fields. And the need to lower overall healthcare costs could pinch some doctors, hospital workers and diagnosticians. But demand should be strong for nurses, optometrists, audiologists, dentists, physical therapists, and some doctor specialists.

This should also make you feel good if you're an established dentist. After all, it's always nice to know that the career you have devoted your life to, is validated by outside analysts as an exceptionally good way to make a living. You should also be inspired. Reports like this one will have an effect on the future of the profession, because it means dentistry is going to be a very attractive career option for those who are among the "best and the brightest" of the emerging generation. Some very talented people are about to become dentists, and that raises the bar for everyone.

It's going to take nothing less than total dedication to be recognized as a great dentist in the years ahead. However, if you're serious about being among the best at this "best job," you wouldn't want it any other way.


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Commenter's Profile Image Gerald Benjamin
April 5th, 2013
I simply find it hard to believe that dentistry is rated the top job in America. Many average dentists that I know either hate being a dentist or tolerate the job at best. Many dentists constantly complain about insurance companies and negative attitudes of their patients who demand that they only do the work that insurance companies pay for. I have loved every minute of the 36 years that I have been practicing dentistry and hope to practice another 10 years.
Commenter's Profile Image Raritan Dentist
June 5th, 2013
I love our profession because there is never a day that goes by that is exactly like the day before. We have the ability to transform lives of the people we meet and make friends with the people we take care of. Yes, we have stressful days like other professions: days in which cases don't turn out the way we intended, or dealing with complaints, or managing a business; but the positives of our profession greatly out weigh any negatives.