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
- Unified professional identity enhances credibility – When an Associate Dentist’s resume echoes the achievements, skills, and ethos highlighted on their LinkedIn profile, it builds unmistakable authenticity. Reviewers are more likely to trust a candidate whose personal branding is cohesive across platforms, providing confidence in their reliability, integrity, and professional focus.
- Concluding statements with intent leave a final impact – Well-crafted closing remarks at the end of the resume, such as a purposeful summary and a proactive call to action, reinforce the dentist’s enthusiasm for the role. This decisive finish encourages employers to take the next step and positions the applicant as both motivated and invested in career advancement.
- Diverse experience ties directly to clinical requirements – Highlighting how previous roles in dentistry—be it through internships, residencies, or community outreach—specifically prepare the candidate for the Associate Dentist position, shows thoughtful career progression. Connecting real-world examples to the role’s present-day demands demonstrates both readiness and a strategic approach to professional growth.
Pediatric Dentist
- Demonstrated track record of measurable contributions – Highlighting specific achievements such as significantly improving patient retention rates, introducing innovative preventive care programs, or receiving local and national recognition sets a candidate apart by illustrating real, quantifiable value brought to previous practices.
- Depth of clinical expertise and ongoing education – Showcasing advanced training in pediatric sedation, management of dental trauma, or certifications in the latest dental technologies reflects a commitment to clinical excellence and an ability to address the unique challenges often encountered in pediatric dentistry.
- Immediate impression of compassion and fit for pediatric care – A resume that integrates evidence of effective communication with children and families, involvement in community outreach, and a track record of collaboration with multidisciplinary teams instantly signals both empathy and suitability for the specialized demands of pediatric dental environments.
General Dentist
- An organized layout enhances impact – A General Dentist’s resume truly captures attention when it incorporates clean headings, consistent margins, and generous white space, making credentials immediately accessible and easy for recruiters to scan. Clearly delineated sections and concise bullet points not only improve legibility, but also convey professionalism and respect for the reader’s time.
- Summarizing value with a compelling close – Finishing with a robust closing statement can leave a powerful impression, especially when it highlights ongoing dedication to patient care, a willingness to embrace new techniques, or a deep commitment to professional development. Pairing this with a concise call to action—such as welcoming the opportunity for an interview—shows initiative and fosters engagement from potential employers.
- Distinctive skills and tailored expertise elevate the profile – A stand-out General Dentist resume showcases experiences or specializations rarely found in other candidates, such as multi-lingual patient communication, advanced certification in innovative procedures, or leadership in community health projects. This clear demonstration of unique strengths positions the candidate as an indispensable asset to any dental practice.
Recent Graduate Dentist
- Showcasing a distinct personal edge through specialization and initiative – An outstanding recent graduate dentist resume distinguishes itself by emphasizing a unique blend of clinical acumen and individual achievements, such as leading community oral health projects or gaining certification in advanced restorative techniques. This singular combination demonstrates not only a robust knowledge foundation but also motivation to surpass standard requirements, setting the applicant apart from peers in a crowded field.
- Leaving a memorable impression with a proactive conclusion – The most compelling resumes end with a decisive, confident closing statement that urges employers to take the next step, such as expressing sincere enthusiasm for contributing to the practice’s growth or requesting an interview to discuss how their patient-centered philosophy aligns with the clinic’s mission. This assertive close not only reiterates interest but also prompts engagement, giving candidates a final, persuasive edge.
- Integrating technical dental vocabulary with clarity – Utilizing industry-accepted terminology, such as “digital radiography interpretation,” “composite resin restoration,” or “periodontal assessment,” demonstrates familiarity with contemporary practices and tools. The resume gains credibility and relevance when these terms are employed judiciously and contextually, ensuring the applicant’s expertise is communicated clearly to dental professionals reviewing the application.
Associate Dentist
- A compelling first impression anchors the reader’s attention – Launching the resume with a dynamic and specific introductory statement sets the stage for a memorable application. When an Associate Dentist begins by highlighting a unique blend of clinical skills, patient rapport, and commitment to professional growth, it immediately demonstrates relevance and dedication, capturing the curiosity of hiring managers.
- Information is streamlined for easy review – The resume achieves clarity and impact by ensuring every section is concise and directly addresses core job requirements. Clearly-labeled achievements, succinct bullet points describing responsibilities, and a clean format help the reader process qualifications quickly, reducing the chance of critical skills being overlooked in a lengthy document.
- Highlights resonate with readers on a personal level – Showcasing patient-centered accomplishments and empathetic communication sets a resume apart emotionally. By weaving in examples that reflect genuine care, such as building trust with anxious patients or supporting community dental health, the narrative fosters a connection, conveying that the candidate will be a valued team member beyond technical expertise.
Endodontist
- Demonstrated expertise in advanced endodontic techniques – A standout Endodontist resume details hands-on experience with complex root canal therapies, surgical endodontics, and integration of modern technologies like digital radiography or operating microscopes. Specific mention of cases managed, continuing education in microsurgery, or publication of relevant research can exhibit a profound depth in the specialty, assuring employers of both technical mastery and dedication to cutting-edge patient care.
- Unique contributions that elevate patient care standards – Showcasing specialized achievements, such as developing streamlined protocols for pain management or pioneering minimally invasive approaches, distinguishes a candidate from peers. For instance, evidence of leading quality improvement initiatives, mentoring dental staff, or introducing innovative patient communication methods can reflect an exceptional commitment to elevating the patient experience and clinical outcomes.
- Unified professional image across platforms – Consistency between the resume and an up-to-date LinkedIn profile signals professionalism and reliability. When professional summaries, listed certifications, and endorsements mirror one another accurately, it demonstrates meticulous personal branding and a strong digital presence, which is increasingly essential for trust-building with prospective employers and patients alike.
Forensic Dentist
- Dynamic skill set showcased through broad forensic experiences – A compelling Forensic Dentist resume highlights adaptability by presenting a diverse range of cases and environments handled, such as disaster victim identification, courtroom testimony, and collaboration with law enforcement, showcasing the candidate’s capability to transition seamlessly across various forensic contexts.
- Impactful summary blending expertise with reader engagement – The introduction captures attention by immediately identifying unique qualifications and a dedicated passion for the intersection of dentistry and forensic science, setting a focused tone that combines authority with genuine enthusiasm for aiding investigations and upholding justice.
- Professional drive balanced with approachable competence – The overall tone reflects an ideal mix of clinical credibility and approachable confidence, projecting both reliability in high-stakes circumstances and a readiness to communicate findings to diverse audiences—qualities essential for multidisciplinary forensic teams and legal proceedings.
Orthodontic Dentist
- Demonstrates a clear trajectory towards orthodontic specialization – A standout resume effectively showcases how prior roles, continuing education, and certifications have naturally led to a career in orthodontics. Concrete examples such as hands-on orthodontic cases, contributions to multidisciplinary teams, and attendance at relevant workshops indicate deliberate career development in this area.
- Organizes information for immediate understanding and easy navigation – Exceptional resumes for orthodontic dentists employ a logical layout, using concise bullet points and distinct section headers. This clarity enables recruiters to swiftly identify essential skills, professional achievements, and educational credentials without wading through unnecessary details or repetitive language.
- Blends confident professionalism with visible passion for patient outcomes – A memorable orthodontic dentist resume strikes a balance between authoritative expertise and genuine warmth. Rather than a dry list of duties, the document expresses enthusiasm for improving patient smiles and fostering trust, highlighting commitment to both technical excellence and compassionate care.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
- Polished organization enhances impact – A standout Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon resume showcases achievements, qualifications, and certifications with precision, using clear headings and bullet points that allow vital details to be located quickly, ensuring nothing is buried beneath lengthy text. Effective use of brevity demonstrates respect for the recruiter’s time while still conveying all essential competencies.
- Human connection draws in the reader – An exceptional resume in this field goes beyond listing credentials, skillfully weaving in stories of compassionate patient care, collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, and overcoming surgical challenges. Personal touches like these foster an emotional connection, helping the reviewer recognize the candidate’s genuine passion and empathy for their profession.
- Relevant expertise forms a cohesive narrative – A compelling resume for this specialty deliberately links previous surgical experience, advanced training, and research interests to the specific demands of oral and maxillofacial practice, illustrating how the candidate’s background has shaped them into an ideal match for the position and the organization’s needs.
Prosthodontist
- Targeted understanding of organizational culture – A standout Prosthodontist resume highlights familiarity with the clinic or institution’s mission, values, and patient demographics, weaving in relevant experiences such as collaborative care or specific digital workflow expertise that mirror the company's priorities and enhance fit.
- Captivating personal achievements that foster connection – The most effective resumes use concise storytelling to convey genuine passion for patient outcomes, illustrating this with impactful case examples or transformative improvements, thereby drawing in the reader on both a professional and emotional level.
- Mastery in specialized dental vocabulary – To demonstrate deep expertise, a top Prosthodontist resume incorporates precise terminology such as “full-arch implant prostheses,” “maxillofacial prosthodontics,” and “CAD/CAM restoration planning,” showcasing proficiency and fluency in essential procedures and technologies unique to the field.
Geriatric Dentist
- Demonstrating flexibility through diverse patient care experience – A standout Geriatric Dentist resume features concrete examples highlighting the ability to adapt to varying patient needs and complex medical histories, such as managing dental care for seniors with dementia, coordinating with interdisciplinary healthcare teams, or adjusting techniques for patients with mobility challenges.
- Presenting information in a clean, intuitive format – Carefully organized sections with consistent fonts, logical headings, and bullet-pointed achievements make the candidate’s expertise easily accessible; clear separation of licensure, certifications, and continuing education ensures that critical qualifications stand out at a glance.
- Tailoring accomplishments to reflect understanding of the clinic's mission – The best resumes go beyond listing responsibilities, instead demonstrating an awareness of the prospective employer’s patient philosophy by referencing past initiatives that align with the organization’s focus, such as patient-centered care programs, outreach to underserved elderly populations, or compliance with specific regulatory standards important to the clinic.
Implant Dentist
- Demonstrates specialized expertise with breadth – Highlighting advanced certifications in implantology along with a robust portfolio of successful cases immediately sets the applicant apart, showcasing depth of clinical skill and a commitment to staying at the forefront of dental innovations.
- Starts with a compelling, results-driven opening – A well-crafted introduction succinctly stating years of experience, expertise in complex procedures, and a passion for patient-centered care captures attention, signaling instantly that the dentist is not only highly qualified but also aligned with top practice standards.
- Delivers a unified professional image across platforms – When the branding on the resume mirrors achievements and messaging found on the candidate’s LinkedIn profile, it builds credibility and assures employers of a consistent, reliable professional narrative tailored to the field of implant dentistry.
Holistic Dentist
- Company alignment shines through tailored content – An outstanding holistic dentist resume showcases in-depth awareness of the clinic’s mission and patient philosophy by referencing specific services, eco-friendly initiatives, or biocompatible material use unique to the organization. This careful customization signals sincere interest and ensures the candidate stands out as someone who has gone the extra mile to connect their own values and expertise with the company’s vision.
- Emotional appeal captures reader attention – Storytelling elements and thoughtfully chosen language help a resume form a human connection, demonstrating empathy and patient focus. By highlighting moments where patient well-being was transformed or anxiety was eased through integrative dental care, the resume engages the reader on a deeper level and shares a sense of passion and dedication for improving lives through holistic approaches.
- Engaging opening sets a compelling tone – The introduction immediately conveys authentic enthusiasm and specialized knowledge by blending a succinct summary of holistic philosophies with a keen awareness of current trends in biological dentistry. This immediately signals to the hiring manager not just technical qualification, but also a commitment to meaningful, patient-centered care from the very first lines.
Periodontist
- Sleek formatting with to-the-point entries – A standout periodontist resume utilizes clean, organized sections and succinct phraseology, ensuring that every detail is delivered without unnecessary elaboration and that relevant skills and certifications are highlighted efficiently for quick assessment.
- Direct connection of clinical roles to periodontics – Exceptional resumes draw a logical trajectory from previous dental positions or specialized training, demonstrating a clear intention and readiness for advanced periodontal responsibilities by showing how earlier experiences uniquely support the demands of the specialty.
- Demonstrable improvements in patient outcomes – Quantifiable successes such as reduced infection rates, enhanced patient retention, or the successful introduction of novel treatment techniques point to meaningful professional contributions, underscoring the candidate’s positive influence within the practice environment.
Cosmetic Dentist
- Deep alignment with the clinic’s philosophy – A distinguished Cosmetic Dentist resume reflects in-depth research into the specific clinic’s mission, patient demographic, and service offerings, tailoring skills and achievements to echo what the company values most, such as a commitment to minimally invasive techniques or state-of-the-art technology integration.
- A compelling introduction that commands attention – The opening sentence clearly articulates both the candidate’s specialization and their direct relevance to cosmetic dentistry, for instance, immediately highlighting advanced training in aesthetic procedures or a track record of transforming patient outcomes, drawing the reader into the candidate’s unique story.
- Striking the right balance between confident expertise and genuine passion – The resume’s tone projects authority and capability through concrete achievements and credentials, while infusing sincere enthusiasm for artistry and patient care, which helps paint the candidate as both highly professional and personally invested in delivering exceptional cosmetic results.
Public Health Dentist
- Clear articulation of purpose and passion – Highlighting a genuine commitment to community wellness and oral health promotion allows a candidate’s underlying motivation to shine through. A succinct personal statement or opening summary that showcases a drive to address oral health disparities and contribute to public oral health initiatives demonstrates focus beyond routine clinical care and helps the applicant stand out.
- Substantial detail in professional experience and specialized competencies – Demonstrating a thorough understanding of epidemiological methods, program management, and data-driven prevention strategies relevant to public health dentistry adds credibility. Including quantifiable achievements, research experience, or involvement in community outreach projects shows a robust grasp of public health interventions and differentiates the candidate from those with only clinical backgrounds.
- Strategic use of layout and organization for easy navigation – Employing ample spacing, distinct headings, and concise bullet points ensures that crucial information is easy to locate and digest at a glance. Thoughtful formatting, consistent section breaks, and logical progression between sections not only enhance readability but also reflect attention to detail—qualities highly valued in public health professionals.
Dental Radiologist
- Unified professional narrative across digital and written platforms – A standout Dental Radiologist resume demonstrates deliberate alignment with the individual’s online presence, such as LinkedIn, by consistently presenting credentials, career milestones, and key expertise in dental imaging. This coherence assures employers that the professional identity and story are authentic and unwavering across various channels.
- Balanced messaging combining expertise with passion for the specialty – The most compelling resumes effectively communicate technical prowess, such as knowledge of CBCT or panoramic modalities, while also radiating genuine enthusiasm for advancing oral healthcare through imaging. This thoughtful integration of energy with precision reassures hiring teams of both competence and dedication.
- Immediate clarity on fit and readiness for responsibilities – From the very first glance, the document conveys whether the candidate meets core requirements through intuitive organization, selective keyword use, and a strategically placed summary. This directness not only signals suitability for the Dental Radiologist role but also reflects the candidate’s self-awareness and value to potential employers.
Dental Anesthesiologist
- Impactful finales and compelling calls to connect – An outstanding Dental Anesthesiologist resume delivers a memorable closing by presenting a blend of gratitude and confidence, effectively reaffirming compatibility with the practice’s needs. The conclusion invites follow-up by clearly expressing anticipation for an interview, seamlessly transitioning the written application into a proactive step toward engagement.
- Blending expertise with an approachable demeanor – The most impressive resumes strike an ideal tone, harmonizing clinical professionalism with genuine passion for patient care and teamwork. This balance highlights the candidate’s mastery of anesthesia protocols alongside a clear enthusiasm for advancing dental outcomes, making them both credible and likable.
- Previous roles build a tailored foundation – The resume is further distinguished by demonstrating a logical progression from earlier anesthesiology and dental practice experience to the specific functions required for the role. Each duty, certification, or achievement is presented in light of its relevance to dental anesthesia, showing the candidate’s background isn’t just impressive but uniquely suited for this specialized position.
Veterinary Dentist
- Demonstrated flexibility in clinical and educational settings – A Veterinary Dentist’s resume becomes particularly compelling when it showcases a history of thriving across varied animal practice environments, shifting seamlessly from private clinics to academic teaching hospitals. Highlighting hands-on experiences with a broad spectrum of species, as well as adapting to differing client needs and technological advancements, signals an ability to respond adeptly to evolving professional demands.
- A voice blending expertise with genuine excitement – Striking the right note between authoritative professionalism and an earnest passion for animal oral health helps the candidate connect with both employers and pet owners. When the resume radiates both knowledge and enthusiasm—whether through descriptions of collaborative case management or quality care initiatives—it leaves a memorable impression while maintaining total credibility.
- Distinct skills and credentials that surpass baseline expectations – Setting oneself apart is about more than listing routine duties. A standout resume will underscore rare certifications, advanced dental procedures performed, or innovative research contributions. Pointing to specialized training or notable veterinary dental presentations illustrates a proactive commitment to excellence, positioning the candidate as a true authority within their field.
Dental Pathologist
- Embedded expertise via technical language – A top-tier Dental Pathologist resume seamlessly incorporates precise terminology such as “oral histopathology,” “biopsy interpretation,” “immunohistochemical staining,” and “molecular diagnostic techniques,” instantly signaling advanced proficiency to hiring managers. This terminology not only elevates the resume’s credibility but also demonstrates the candidate’s immersion within the dental pathology field, differentiating them from applicants using broader healthcare jargon.
- Signature strengths that differentiate the candidate – What truly sets an accomplished Dental Pathologist apart is a distinct value proposition, such as experience leading multidisciplinary tumor boards, implementing digital pathology systems, or pioneering research in rare odontogenic tumors. These unique contributions position the applicant as a forward-thinking leader, making the resume memorable and appealing to institutions seeking innovators who will drive progress within the specialty.
- Narrative that fosters genuine engagement – The resume captivates readers through thoughtfully chosen language that illustrates passion for patient outcomes and collaborative care, for example by describing efforts to reduce diagnostic turnaround times or actively engaging in mentorship of junior pathologists. By emphasizing a commitment to both scientific rigor and human-centered care, the document resonates emotionally, inviting employers to envision the candidate as a compassionate contributor to their team.
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.
Optimize your resume summary and objective for ATS
Drop your resume here or choose a file.
PDF & DOCX only. Max 2MB file size.
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.