Creating a dentist resume that shines as bright as the smiles you create presents some challenges for new and experienced dentists.
There are many different dental specialties that you can highlight on your resume. Those who don’t include the required skills and experience in requested specialized areas are likely not to make it to the first round of interviews.
In this guide, we will examine the most common issues dentists have when building an eye-catching resume and how to use each section to its full potential. We will use real-world resume examples to show you how to:
- Demonstrate technical abilities with specific tools and dental software in a way that recruiters and hiring staff can understand
- Highlight continued professional development with new technologies and dental procedures through continuing education, conferences, and memberships in dental associations
- Showcase a healthy mix of clinical skills, technical skills, and interpersonal skills
- Quantify dental metrics, such as patient satisfaction, recovery times, and number of procedures performed
If this resume guide does not fit with your career goals, check out these other resume examples for similar dentist positions:
Dentist resume examples
By Role
Associate Dentist
- Demonstrates passion for patient care and professional growth – A compelling Associate Dentist CV clearly communicates the candidate’s enthusiasm for providing exemplary dental treatment and a genuine interest in joining the specific practice. By articulating a well-defined motivation for applying, such as alignment with the practice's values or commitment to ongoing education and community involvement, the CV immediately signals a thoughtful, driven applicant who understands the position's significance.
- Presents a polished and practice-ready profile – The overall presentation of the CV, including clarity, organization, and tailored content, sets a professional tone and quickly exhibits the candidate’s readiness for a clinical role. Extensions beyond qualifications—such as concise descriptions of interpersonal skills, adaptability, and a patient-first attitude—demonstrate suitability for a bustling dental environment and an ability to integrate smoothly into an established team.
- Connects clinical background with the new role's expectations – By drawing direct parallels between prior responsibilities—such as hands-on experience with restorative techniques, preventative care, and patient communication—and the demands of the associate dentist position, the CV highlights relevant expertise. This targeted alignment reassures employers that the candidate can seamlessly transfer and expand upon their existing skills within the practice’s workflow and expectations.
Pediatric Dentist
- Showcasing proficiency with pediatric dental concepts – Incorporating language such as behavior management, preventive care modalities, interceptive orthodontics, and nitrous oxide administration not only demonstrates practical knowledge but also affirms specialization in treating young patients with sensitivity and expertise.
- Highlighting achievements with succinct bullet points – Presenting skills, certifications, and practice history in a precise and clear format enables hiring committees to swiftly evaluate clinical aptitude, patient rapport, and leadership in team-based pediatric settings without being bogged down by excessive wording.
- Concluding with an action-driven summary – Wrapping up the CV with a compelling professional summary or a well-crafted call to action reinforces enthusiasm for the role and invites further discussion, leaving a confident and memorable impression that encourages contact for interviews.
General Dentist
- Closing statements that leave a lasting impression – A compelling General Dentist CV concludes with a concise yet persuasive call to action, demonstrating the applicant’s eagerness to join the team and contribute meaningfully. By summarizing their unique skills and explicitly inviting the employer to initiate an interview, candidates show both confidence and professionalism, ensuring their profile remains memorable beyond the final line.
- Blending authority with genuine enthusiasm – The most impactful CVs from General Dentists strike a skilled balance between polished professionalism and authentic passion for dental care. A tone that seamlessly combines clinical expertise and genuine care for patient well-being communicates reliability while also revealing the candidate’s dedication to making a positive difference in their field.
- Highlighting distinct strengths and specialties – What truly distinguishes a General Dentist’s CV is a thoughtful emphasis on their individual value, such as advanced training in cosmetic procedures, community health involvement, or expertise in patient anxiety management. By presenting these specialized assets clearly, the applicant demonstrates how they can offer unique contributions to the practice, distinguishing themselves from other professionals.
Recent Graduate Dentist
- Finding the middle ground between energy and formal presentation – A CV truly draws attention when it communicates a candidate’s sincere eagerness for dentistry alongside a clear sense of professionalism. By blending approachable, vibrant language with respectful restraint, applicants portray themselves as both motivated newcomers and responsible practitioners, which resonates well with hiring managers seeking team members who are both driven and polished.
- Highlighting clinical skills with tangible experience – Detailing a range of clinical competencies, involvement in relevant placements, and any hands-on activities with concrete examples showcases genuine readiness for practice. When a recent graduate uses precise language to explain procedures they have performed and technologies they have encountered, this adds authority and substance, reassuring employers of a sound technical foundation despite limited experience.
- Delivering a confident yet inviting first impression – The strongest CVs immediately project a sense of suitability by clearly organizing content, using concise statements, and tailoring details to the specific dental role. This clarity, alongside cues that the individual is adaptable and patient-focused, generates a sense of reliability and assures practices that the graduate will transition smoothly into their team and daily routines.
Associate Dentist
- Demonstrates a targeted fit for dental associate roles – A compelling Associate Dentist CV quickly assures the recruiter that the candidate has not only the necessary qualifications and licensure but also concrete experience in diverse dental procedures. By spotlighting clinical expertise, patient care achievements, and any certifications in modern dental technologies, the document instantly signals a match for the unique demands of an associate position within a busy surgery or practice.
- Cultivates a warm and professional tone – What sets apart a memorable CV is its ability to communicate genuine enthusiasm for patient wellbeing and teamwork. Personal statements that reflect a dedication to personalized dental care, clear communication with patients, or collaborative work with colleagues create an emotional connection, encouraging the reader to want to learn more about the candidate’s passion and values.
- Employs crisp formatting and visual clarity – Effective use of white space, logical section breaks, and concise bullet points ensures that the CV remains easy to scan during a fast-paced review. Legible fonts, consistent alignment, and minimal clutter improve readability, helping key accomplishments and skills to stand out without overwhelming the reader or appearing disorganized.
Endodontist
- Immediate relevance signals through layout and tailoring – A standout Endodontist CV instantly communicates suitability thanks to a thoughtfully organized structure, strategically spotlighting expertise in microscopic root canal procedures, dental trauma management, and other core endodontic skills right from the start. Key specializations, certifications, and up-to-date licensure are made unmissable, ensuring employers can quickly assess alignment with their clinical needs.
- Depth of technical skillset and continuous professional development – Beyond simply listing experience, an exceptional application delves into advanced techniques performed regularly, such as rotary instrumentation, surgical endodontics, and application of the latest biocompatible materials. It further distinguishes itself by referencing ongoing education, scholarly contributions, and participation in professional organizations, demonstrating both mastery and an active commitment to staying on the forefront of dental science.
- Impactful summary that cements a clear professional identity – The introductory profile on a compelling Endodontist CV goes beyond generic objectives, instead presenting a sharply defined narrative that emphasizes years of focused endodontic practice, notable case outcomes, and a dedication to patient-centered care. Such an opening draws in the reader, pledging distinctive value and prompting closer examination of the applicant’s credentials.
Forensic Dentist
- Balancing authority with passion – A standout Forensic Dentist CV carefully blends a tone that showcases deep scientific rigor with an undercurrent of enthusiasm for forensic investigations. While it must communicate an unshakable sense of professionalism, it is equally important that the document radiates genuine interest in contributing expertise to the field, making the applicant memorable and approachable to recruiting teams.
- Building a seamless story from past roles to forensics – Exceptional CVs for this specialty succinctly link previous dental practice, academic achievements, and involvement in medico-legal cases directly to the demands of forensic odontology. By emphasizing hands-on experience with identification work, courtroom testimony, or research related to human remains, the candidate demonstrates not just capability, but clear intent and preparedness for the specialized nature of the job.
- Inviting layout that helps skills shine – The most effective CVs offer a visually organized experience, using distinct paragraphs, white space, and clear section headings to enhance readability. This deliberate structuring draws attention to core competencies and major achievements, enabling quick review by hiring committees and increasing the applicant’s chances of progressing to interview stages.
Orthodontic Dentist
- Clear articulation of personal drive and career goals – Demonstrating a strong sense of purpose and clear ambition within the field of orthodontics shows that the applicant is genuinely committed to both patient care and professional growth. Specifically outlining why orthodontics is a chosen specialty, and relating it to meaningful experiences or long-term aspirations, gives hiring managers confidence in the candidate’s dedication and future trajectory.
- Evidence of flexibility in clinical and interpersonal skills – Highlighting a diverse background in various dental procedures, as well as adaptability to different patient demographics and treatment environments, illustrates the candidate’s versatility. Whether through continuing education courses, experience with different orthodontic technologies, or success working within multidisciplinary teams, such examples set a candidate apart as resourceful and able to thrive in evolving clinical settings.
- Demonstrates a deep understanding of the practice's vision and culture – Referencing specific details about the company’s treatment philosophy, community involvement, or innovative approaches signals thorough research and a genuine interest in the workplace. Tailoring the CV to align with the practice’s values and goals suggests that the candidate will integrate smoothly and contribute meaningfully to the team’s success.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
- First impressions shaped by strategic openings – A standout CV for an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon initiates with a compelling profile section that precisely highlights core competencies, years of experience, and specialized surgical expertise. A succinct yet impactful introduction immediately communicates the candidate’s value proposition, strategically aligning their unique skills with the needs of leading clinics or hospitals.
- Layout and readability reflect professionalism – Clear section headers, balanced spacing, and logical organization enhance the overall readability of the document. A visually clean CV, with well-organized paragraphs and bullet lists, allows hiring committees to effortlessly scan for vital information, reflecting the surgeon’s attention to detail and organizational acumen—qualities prized in clinical settings.
- Memorable conclusions tie accomplishments to action – Rather than ending abruptly, an exceptional CV closes with a focused statement that summarizes key achievements and politely encourages further engagement. Whether inviting the hiring panel to initiate a conversation or referencing attached portfolios, a confident closing imprints professionalism and readiness to contribute at the highest level.
Prosthodontist
- Distinguishing oneself through specialized expertise – A standout Prosthodontist CV highlights unique competencies, such as advanced maxillofacial prosthetics or digital dentistry integration, positioning the candidate as an authority in emerging or niche domains within prosthodontics. Clearly articulating these distinctions helps set the individual apart from peers with more traditional backgrounds.
- Demonstrating exceptional clinical acumen – Detailing a broad and in-depth range of technical proficiencies, from complex full-mouth rehabilitations to cutting-edge implant procedures, signals a candidate’s mastery in both established and innovative prosthodontic techniques. Endorsements of outcomes, continuing education, and hands-on experience further reinforce professional credibility.
- Creating a unified professional narrative – The most effective applications maintain alignment between the CV and tailored online profiles, weaving a consistent story of dedication, leadership, and impact in the field. This harmony across platforms enhances trust and projects a polished, intentional personal brand that resonates with employers and colleagues alike.
Geriatric Dentist
- Demonstrates advanced clinical expertise and certifications – A standout geriatric dentist CV highlights comprehensive experience with age-related oral health conditions such as xerostomia, root caries, and prosthodontic rehabilitation. Detailing specialized postgraduate training, relevant board certifications, and hands-on work in multidisciplinary geriatric care settings conveys a robust professional background and deep technical proficiency.
- Integrates sector-specific language for credibility – Using precise terminology like “polypharmacy risk assessment," “collaborative care planning,” and “oral-systemic health integration” positions the candidate as fluent in the unique demands and collaborative nature of geriatric dentistry. This focuses the reader’s attention on the applicant’s familiarity with issues and solutions pivotal in this specialized field, distinguishing them as an industry insider.
- Caps off with a persuasive, tailored closing statement – A compelling CV in this specialty finishes with an assertive closing that articulates an eagerness to contribute to both patient outcomes and interdisciplinary teams. By inviting further discussion and aligning personal motivation with the institution’s values, the closing demonstrates confidence, professionalism, and a strong sense of purpose.
Implant Dentist
- The effective integration of clinical vocabulary demonstrates expertise – Utilizing terms such as “osseointegration,” “guided bone regeneration,” “prosthetic-driven planning,” and “CBCT analysis” throughout the CV signals a sophisticated understanding of implantology. When candidates consistently apply accurate, relevant dental implant terminology, it reflects not only familiarity with advanced procedures but also a commitment to staying current within a constantly evolving specialty.
- A powerful introductory statement establishes immediate credibility – Opening with a succinct declaration of both qualifications and specialization, such as highlighting years of focused implant practice or distinguishing certifications (e.g., Diplomate of the ICOI), instantly communicates suitability for the role. This initial impact hooks the reader’s attention, setting a professional tone that distinguishes the applicant from generalized dental resumes.
- Evidence of alignment with the clinic’s mission reinforces organizational synergy – Referencing knowledge of the employer’s approach—whether it’s an emphasis on minimally invasive solutions or integrating digital implant workflows—shows deliberate research and authentic enthusiasm for the company’s vision. Directly connecting prior experience with the practice’s core values and unique offerings illustrates a thoughtful fit beyond technical competence.
Holistic Dentist
- Demonstrating measurable advancements in holistic care – Captivating CVs from holistic dentists showcase precise achievements, such as implementing biocompatible materials that reduced patient post-procedure sensitivities or launching preventative programs that boosted patient retention rates. Such concrete accomplishments lend credibility and illuminate the candidate’s efficacy in fostering healthier, whole-person care.
- Weaving a narrative of experience tailored to integrative dentistry – A standout CV seamlessly links prior dental roles—like time spent in wellness-focused clinics or participation in functional medicine collaborations—to the objectives of holistic practice. This highlights a dentist’s ability to blend conventional expertise with complementary methodologies, positioning them as well-versed in delivering integrative care relevant to the hiring practice.
- Concluding with conviction and an eagerness to contribute – Impactful closing statements articulate the applicant’s passion for holistic methods and their readiness to contribute meaningfully to the team’s mission. A well-crafted conclusion often includes a call to action, inviting discussion or interview, and expresses genuine alignment with the clinic’s vision, making it memorable to hiring managers.
Periodontist
- Consistent formatting enhances first impressions – A Periodontist CV that employs uniform margins, generous spacing, and clear paragraph divisions projects professionalism and makes it easy for recruiters to process the applicant’s information. Choosing legible fonts and logical heading structures ensures essential qualifications and experience are highlighted, increasing readability.
- Specific expertise illustrates deep clinical knowledge – By detailing advanced periodontal procedures, ongoing education, research participation, and specialized certifications, the CV demonstrates technical proficiency. Explicit mention of skills in implantology or periodontal regeneration convinces potential employers of the candidate’s differentiated capabilities and commitment to excellence in the field.
- An assertive conclusion leaves a lasting impact – A CV that ends with an enthusiastic closing paragraph and a clear invitation to connect or discuss qualifications sets the stage for further dialogue. Summarizing key strengths, expressing eagerness to contribute, and directly requesting an interview signals confidence and proactive engagement with the application process.
Cosmetic Dentist
- Demonstrates alignment with the clinic’s values and mission – A compelling Cosmetic Dentist CV reflects careful research into the prospective employer by highlighting experience with procedures or technologies the clinic emphasizes and referencing shared priorities such as patient-centered care or innovation. This illustrates a proactive interest in joining the team and assures employers of a cultural and operational fit.
- Showcases genuine enthusiasm through personal impact stories – The CV resonates emotionally when it weaves in concise examples of transforming patients’ confidence or overcoming unique aesthetic challenges. By framing achievements in terms of patient outcomes and the satisfaction derived from improving lives, the candidate forges a human connection with the reader.
- Establishes credibility and intent at first glance – A well-structured layout, clear qualifications, and a professional tone convey the impression of a detail-oriented specialist perfectly suited to cosmetic dentistry. By tailoring skills and certifications to the specific requirements of the role, the applicant immediately signals readiness to excel within the position.
Public Health Dentist
- Showing alignment with the organization’s mission – A standout Public Health Dentist CV addresses the specific initiatives and values of the employer, such as community outreach or population-based oral health improvement. Tailoring the summary and selected experiences to echo the company’s unique priorities demonstrates genuine interest and a deeper level of preparation, making the application feel personalized rather than generic.
- Highlighting flexible skills across settings – The most impressive CVs illustrate the candidate’s ability to excel in varied environments, drawing on examples like rural health campaigns, urban school programs, or collaboration with multidisciplinary teams. Detailing how they’ve adapted interventions or communication techniques for distinct populations signals readiness to meet diverse challenges in public dental health.
- Utilizing clean formatting for easy navigation – Effective CVs use clear headings, consistent spacing, and succinct sections, which help recruiters quickly identify key qualifications. Logical sequencing, bullet lists for achievements, and judicious white space all contribute to a polished presentation that is inviting to read and highlights the candidate’s professionalism.
Dental Radiologist
- Demonstrating proficiency in advanced radiologic techniques – A compelling Dental Radiologist CV emphasizes hands-on experience with both conventional and digital imaging technologies, as well as familiarity with 3D cone-beam computed tomography and image interpretation. Mentioning continual professional development, published research, or certifications in radiologic safety and technology can further signal exemplary technical depth in the field.
- Articulating a clear and passionate drive for the specialty – A standout candidate illustrates not only interest but also sustained commitment to dental radiology, outlining what specifically attracts them to diagnostic imaging’s role in patient care and interdisciplinary teamwork. Highlighting a genuine desire to advance standards of oral health through radiological excellence demonstrates purpose and alignment with the profession’s goals.
- Providing evidence of flexibility in diverse clinical scenarios – Showcasing adaptability might include examples of thriving in varied healthcare environments, such as remote consultations, academic settings, or high-volume practices. Noting successful collaborations with clinicians from multiple specialties or implementing innovative imaging protocols in challenging cases highlights quick learning and the ability to tailor approaches to evolving needs.
Dental Anesthesiologist
- Clear articulation of purpose – A standout CV expresses an unmistakable sense of direction and intent, demonstrating that the candidate’s passion for dental anesthesiology is grounded in meaningful experiences rather than generic aspiration. Applicants who clearly connect their background, specialized training, and future goals show that they have thoughtfully chosen this career path because of a genuine commitment to patient comfort and safety.
- Captivating personal narrative – An engaging curriculum vitae resonates emotionally when it moves beyond listing formal credentials to offer glimpses into the applicant’s character, such as through impactful stories from clinical experiences, mentorship moments, or heartfelt involvement in patient care. These small windows into the candidate’s journey enable the selection committee to form a connection and see the person behind the qualifications.
- Demonstrated record of influence – A truly exceptional dental anesthesiologist CV is distinguished by robust, quantifiable accomplishments, whether that means initiating safety protocols that reduced adverse events, leading continuing education seminars for colleagues, or contributing to research that has shaped best practices. Concrete results provide compelling evidence of professional expertise and leadership within the field.
Veterinary Dentist
- Demonstrating concrete results through career milestones – A standout Veterinary Dentist CV highlights tangible achievements, such as successful completion of advanced dental surgeries, published research in peer-reviewed journals, or measurable improvements in clinic dental case outcomes. This clear record of impact proves the candidate’s ability to drive excellence and contribute to both clinical teams and patient care.
- Illustrating flexibility across various practice environments – Exceptional candidates show evidence of adaptability by detailing experiences in diverse settings, for example moving seamlessly from small animal clinics to specialty hospital teams, collaborating on multidisciplinary cases, or thriving in both private and academic environments. This range showcases their readiness to handle unforeseen challenges and to effectively treat a wide variety of species and cases.
- Employing a reader-friendly, organized design – The most effective CVs embrace logical spacing, neatly separated sections, and concise paragraphs, ensuring hirers can swiftly locate pivotal information. A balanced layout with ample white space, consistent fonts, and bullet-pointed achievements enhances visual flow and makes the document inviting to read.
Dental Pathologist
- A strong beginning captures immediate interest – A compelling introduction on a Dental Pathologist CV sets the stage by succinctly outlining the candidate’s credentials, years of expertise, and a distinctive professional focus, instantly establishing credibility and a sense of enthusiasm for the specialty that prompts the reader to continue.
- Emotional undertones foster connection – By strategically weaving in anecdotes or career highlights involving patient care, interdisciplinary teamwork, or achievements in advancing oral pathology, the CV resonates on a human level, allowing hiring panels to perceive both technical proficiency and genuine passion for the field.
- Ending statements inspire action from employers – The closing section is crafted to reaffirm the applicant’s suitability and eagerness, while also extending a warm invitation for further discussion, ensuring that recruiters feel compelled to initiate the next steps in the hiring process.
Before we start adding your education, work experience, and skill sets, let’s focus on the proper way to format your resume.
How to Format a Dentist Resume
Having a poorly formatted resume is like showing up at a wedding in cutoff shorts and a tank top. Unless everyone is dressed the same, you’re going to stand out, and not in a good way.
Your resume is the first impression recruiters and HR staff will get of you, and you want to present a polished, professional representation of yourself. The first step is to use the standard resume format:
- All sides are set to a one-inch margin.
- Line spacing is set to single-space.
- Font sizes can be set between 10-12 points.
- Keep your resume to no more than two pages.
- 1-inch margins on all sides
- Single line spacing
- Font size between 10-12 points
- A maximum of 2 pages
When choosing your fonts, go with a serif or sans-serif font. These are easier to read and more professional-looking than script, decorative, or handwritten fonts.
You can go with the classical choices of Arial and Times New Roman, but these are a little outdated. Fonts like Exo 2, Lato, Montserrat, Raleway, Rubik, and Volkhov are more modern fonts that can give your resume a cleaner look.
Enhancv resume templates come preset with the correct format, settings, and a long list of modern fonts, so you don’t have to worry about any of the technical specifications. You’ll need to choose which style of resume best suits you:
You’ll notice that each style has the option of a single or two-column format. Feel free to play around with each option and see which one works best for you. Dentists with more than 10+ years of experience can benefit from a two-column format. It allows you to add more technical skills, dental awards, and personal passions on one page.
When submitting your resume to a job post, be sure to save it as a PDF document (.pdf). This will preserve the look of your resume, and is accessible on most computer systems.
Customize your resume for the market – a Canadian format, for example, might vary in structure.
Is your resume good enough?
Drop your resume here or choose a file. PDF & DOCX only. Max 2MB file size.
If you have a resume ready to go, run it through our resume checker to see how well it stands up to other dentist resumes.
Let’s take a look at the top sections that you need to include on your resume:
The top sections on a dentist resume:
- Technical Skills: Detail-proven dental experience and clinical skills, along with technical expertise in standard and advanced dental equipment.
- State Licensing: Each state has its own licensing that you must have in order to practice dentistry.
- Education and Specialized Training: Highlight post-secondary degrees, medical degrees, and any advanced dentist training in periodontics, pediatrics, or maxillofacial surgery.
- Awards and Recognitions: List any local and national awards you received for outstanding dental achievements.
- Research and Publication: Include any research projects, studies, or published articles related to dentistry that you worked on independently or as part of a team.
Here are some of the areas that you want to focus on when adding details to your resume:
What recruiters want to see on your resume:
- Clinical experience and competency: Recruiters look for experience that demonstrates a candidate's ability to efficiently handle standard and advanced dental procedures.
- Specialized skills: Listing specialized training in orthodontics, prosthodontics, or endodontics showcases advanced training and your ability to handle multiple types of procedures.
- Communication and leadership: Dental practices want to see your interpersonal skills and how well you build relationships with your patients.
- Knowledge of regulatory compliance: An in-depth understanding of state and federal healthcare regulations and HIPAA compliance is required.
- Continuing education and professional development: Recruiters want to see that you are current with new dental tools and the latest procedures.
A better understanding of applicant tracking systems
Applicant tracking systems (ATS) are becoming more popular today as they assist HR staff in sorting through all of the resumes they receive for a single position. You may have heard some social influencers talk about the pitfalls of these systems, but don’t listen to their scare tactics.
This software works by allowing recruiters to enter industry-specific keywords and phrases into the system. It then bases its search algorithms on this information to find qualified candidates. This is why it is important to tailor your resume to the job post.
If the job calls for “general and restorative dentistry,” you want to include those keywords in your past work experience, resume summary, or skills section. While you don’t necessarily need to list them word for word, you do want to make sure that experience is included.
Now let’s talk about adding your past work experience in a way that highlights your clinical abilities, interpersonal skills, and business savvy.
How to Write Your Dentist Resume Experience
The resume experience section is where you will list your past work experience and demonstrate your knowledge in general dentistry, pediatric dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and other advanced skills.
Each entry should include the following:
- Job title
- Company name and location
- Company bio
- Dates of employment
- 4-8 bullet points detailing your work experience
Keep in mind that you have limited space. Only list relevant work experience and no more than three job entries. Be sure to list each entry in reverse chronological order, as this is the standard way to list past work experience.
To give you an idea of what to do and what not to do in your dentist resume experience section, we will use a real-world example to demonstrate:
02/2014 - Current 
- •Promoted preventative care and educated patients on proper oral hygiene
- •Collaborated with dentists to design disease treatment plans
- •Performed basic procedures, extractions, root canals, and restorative works
- •Prescribed medications for pain management
- •Examined patients after restorative care
In this example, we get a very brief description of their duties, but it fails to really define how well they performed their job. This is something that recruiters read every day and are fully versed in the duties and responsibilities of the job. What they need to know is how well you performed these duties.
When you list your work experience, you want to answer the following question: How did you use your skills and experience to benefit the practice and its patients?
Our first example doesn’t really answer that question, so we will try and fix that by adding a little more details:
02/2014 - Current - •Promoted preventative care and educated patients on proper oral hygiene, decreasing the number of cavities in patients by 31%
- •Collaborated with 3 dentists to design disease treatment plans for patients with periodontitis, root infections, and dry mouth
- •Performed basic dental procedures, including extractions, root canals, and restorative works for 14-17 patients per day
- •Prescribed medications for pain management and called patients 2-3 days after surgery to check for recovery progress
- •Examined patients after restorative care with a follow-up appointment within two weeks of procedure
We now have a more defined picture of this person's skills and the effect they had at their previous job. This example does a great job of:
- Showcases a significant decrease in patient’s cavities
- Demonstrates teamwork in developing specific treatment plans
- Highlights daily caseload for general dentistry
- Details of patient management procedures
Next, we will go over some ways that you can quantify certain metrics to improve your chances of getting a new job.
How to quantify impact on your resume
One of the best ways that you can create a tailored resume is by adding numbers and percentages when detailing various dental processes, treatment procedures, and other metrics.
This is one resume technique that many dentists fail to utilize because it is more difficult to quantify the impact on medical procedures and patient care methods. You may have to dig a little deeper to find measurable results that will impress future employers.
Let’s take a look at some examples of the metrics you can quantify on your dentist resume:
- Procedures carried out: “ Performed oral surgery, restorative, fixed, and removable prosthetic treatments, and utilized endodontic treatments using the Dentsply-Tulsa system on 30% of patients.”
- Patients managed: “Performed general dental services, including restorative dentistry on 13-15 patients per day.”
- Percentage of successful procedure or recovery rates: “Scheduled follow-up appointments and phone/facetime calls for patient recovery after maxillofacial and reconstructive surgeries, which led to a 28% increase in recovery times.
- Years spent in specialized dental training: “Completed a 48-month Maxillofacial Surgery Residency Program at the University of Arizona College of Medicine.”
- Increases in revenue: “Coordinated with the dental team to develop new care plans for patients, which increased general dentistry appointments by 73%.”
- Dental emergencies: “Performed, on average, 5-8 dental emergencies each month, including broken or chipped teeth, removing abscess, repairing loose or broken braces, and severe soft tissue injuries.”
- Percentage of patient care improvements: “Educated patients on oral health and proper detailed hygiene, including routine brushing and flossing, which led to a 48% decrease in patient cavities.”
- Reduction in Procedure times and efficiency improvements: “Specialized in GC Fuji TRIAGE radiopaque glass ionomers to prevent fissure caries, which decreased surgery times for broken or chipped teeth by 24%.”
While you don’t need to quantify every line, you want to focus on what is listed in the job post. Let’s say you are interested in a job post with the following responsibilities:
Responsibilities:
- Conduct thorough dental evaluations, diagnose patients, and develop personalized treatment plans.
- Ensure exceptional quality of care by adhering to the highest standards of dental treatment and staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in the field.
- Establish and maintain positive relationships with patients, providing a comfortable and reassuring experience throughout their dental journey
- Educate patients on oral hygiene practices and the importance of post-treatment care.
There are several metrics that you can quantify here, such as patient satisfaction and retention:
“Worked with dentists and staff to update check-in/check-out procedures, patient follow-ups, and savings plans that produced a 48% increase in patient satisfaction ratings and a 25% increase in return visits from first-time patients.”
Let’s focus a little on how to create a dentist resume with no experience and the types of jobs you can list that highlight your relatable skills.
How do I write a dentist resume with no experience
Every great dentist once stood on the shores searching for their first dentist job.
It can take anywhere from 10-14 years to complete education and training to become a practicing dentist. During that time, you may have worked in a dental office, hospital, or university, where you used the skills necessary to become a dentist.
The resume experience section for first-time dentists should include those internships and part and full-time jobs where you performed some of the following tasks:
- Educated patients on dental care
- Performed research on oral health developments and new technologies
- Assisted in dental procedures
- Worked as a teacher or other positions in academia
A first-time dentist resume experience section will look something like this:
06/2022 - Current 12/2021 - 05/2022 02/2018 - 11/2021 Notice how each job shows a progression in their career. This is what first-time dentists want to aim for when adding relevant work experience.
In the next section, we will dive into how to add your technical, clinical, and interpersonal skills.
How to List Your Hard and Soft Skills on Your Resume
dentists need to showcase a number of different skill sets to impress their future employers. These skills will demonstrate your abilities to perform procedures safely and efficiently (clinical knowledge), keep the practice profitable (business and marketing skills), and maintain a healthy relationship with patients (people skills).
Hard skills are those technical and clinical skills that you pick up through college courses, dental school, residencies, advanced dental training, and real-world experience. Your hard skills include technical knowledge of dental procedures, equipment, medications, and HIPAA rules and regulations. They also cover other business-related skills to help you manage a practice and make it more successful.
Soft skills include more personal skills that you pick up through daily interactions with your family, friends, and peers. They include necessary skills such as emotional intelligence, time management, and the ability to discern technical information so your patients can understand it.
Enhancv Skills and Technical sections are the best places to list your hard skills:
Best hard skills for your dentist resume
- Root Canal Therapy
- Dental Implant Placement
- Orthodontics
- Prosthodontics
- Periodontal treatment
- Oral surgery
- Pediatric dentistry
- Sedation dentistry
- Tooth Extraction
- Cosmetic dentistry
- Dental software proficiency (for example: Dentrix, Eaglesoft)
- X-Ray Interpretation
- CEREC Crowns
- Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)
- Local Anesthesia
- Nitrous Oxide Sedation
- Invisalign Treatment
- Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) Analysis
- Dental Laser Technology
- Dental Prophylaxis and Scaling
To include your soft skills, use our Passion section or Talent section to list your soft skills.
Best soft skills for your dentist resume
- Patient Management
- Communication Skills
- Empathy
- Interpersonal Skills
- Critical Thinking
- Problem Solving
- Attention to Detail
- Time Management
- Organizational Skills
- Stress Management
- Team Collaboration
- Leadership
- Adaptability
- Ethical Conduct
- Passion for learning
- Patience
- Open-mindedness
- Cultural Competency
- Negotiation Skills
Next, we will focus on adding all of your years of education and advanced training.
How to List Your Certifications and Education on Your Resume
The education path for a dentist is quite extensive, and you want to demonstrate all of your dental education and training in these next few sections.
When listing your post-secondary degrees and medical degrees, you want to include:
- Degree name
- School name and location
- Dates of enrollment or graduation date
You only need to include bullet points if you have little to no relevant work experience and need to showcase what you’ve learned. Take a look at this real-world example:
08/2015 - 04/2020 08/2011 - 04/2015 If the job post calls for advanced training in specialized areas of dentistry, you want your education to reflect that training. Under the Certification section, you can list your dental certifications and advanced training through continuing education, workshops, and conferences.
If you are looking to increase your skills and earning potential, consider applying for one of these national certifications.
Best certifications for your dentist resume
Each state will have different requirements for licensing, so be sure to read the job post carefully for any required education, certifications, and local licensing.
Another section where you can include your status as a certified dentist is the header, like so:
The header is another area where dentists can list certifications, specialized dental areas, and state licensing.
How to Write Your Dentist Resume Summary Or Objective
This next section is where you will make your first impression on recruiters and hiring managers. Which one is right for you: a resume summary or a resume objective? That will depend on how much real-world work experience you have.
A resume summary is for established dentists with 5-10+ years of experience and well established in their career. It is a summarization of their career to date and gives a brief description of their accomplishments.
A resume objective is for first-time dentists and those with only a few years of work experience under their belts. Because you are just starting out, you will list your career objectives and future goals, like applying for certifications for advanced dental procedures and technologies.
We will focus on showing real-world examples of a resume summary to give you an idea of how you can use this section:
This first example is a good try, but it is vague and does not include any measurable metrics. You should avoid using non-descriptive terms when talking about your experience, especially considering there are at least 12 separate dental specialties you can focus on.
Notice the use of a third-person narrative. Writing your resume summary section this way is more of a personal choice. If you want to write it this way, only use a first-person narrative.
Let’s see if we can improve on this example:
Now we have a resume summary that does a great job of including relevant information that will impress your future employer. You can see how adding a little bit of detail can make this section more concise and to the point.
This example demonstrates how you can:
- Detail the specific practice area to coincide with the job post requirements
- Include passions for dental education and educating patients
- Quantify achievements in developing new care processes
- List advanced training in specific practice areas
Now that we have an impression dentist resume that includes your past work experience and education, let’s talk about adding some additional sections that detail other skills that can benefit you as a dentist.
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Additional Sections for a Dentist Resume
We’ve discussed the five main sections of your resume, which include the header, summary, work experience, education, and skills sections. There are other sections that you can add to your resume to round out your skills.
Consider adding some of the following sections:
- Speaking engagements: Giving a lecture on various dental procedures or treatments showcases your expertise in a specialized field.
- Professional associations: Listing networking groups and memberships in national associations is a good way to show that you are active within the industry, building relationships with dental professionals, and staying current with new technologies.
- Community service: Showcasing your dental volunteering efforts and personal projects is a great way to show your dedication and passion for helping people maintain excellent oral health.
Enhancv has several custom sections not found in any other resume template, like our Passion section:
Adding awards, recognitions, and publications to your dentist resume
There are several national and local awards that dentists can achieve throughout their careers. Listing any awards you have won is an easy way to impress recruiters and make you stand out from the crowd.
Enhancv Awards section allows you to showcase your dental awards on your resume and fits nicely as a side column in a two-column resume layout:
In this section, you can include national awards, local community awards, letters of recommendation, and nominations for awards.
Another popular section for dentists to include is for publications. In this section, you can list:
- Research papers and articles
- Case reports
- Review articles
- Patient education materials
- Professional development material
Key Takeaways
The job of your resume is to demonstrate your diverse skill set as a professional dentist in an easy-to-read format. Throughout this guide, we went over some of the common issues that dentists face when building their resume, such as:
- The importance of quantifying dental metrics such as patient satisfaction, improved recovery times, and number of procedures performed on a daily basis.
- The necessity of including post-secondary education, including doctorate degrees and advanced training in specified dental areas.
- How tailoring your resume to include job-specific keywords and phrases from the job description can improve your chances of getting an interview.
- Demonstrating additional skills, like a passion for dentistry and learning new technologies and procedures.