Alternative Jobs for Dentists and Other Professionals

Jobs in the dental field have their perks. From flexible hours to a steady income, a job in dentistry can be very comfortable! However, when it gets down to it, deciding on a specific job can be tough.

The good news? You can keep your options open. Over the past few years, many new and unique careers and jobs have been created in our industry. Take a look at 6 of these alternative jobs currently available in dentistry.

1. Dental Researcher

What it is:
A dental researcher works with companies and institutions to test products, develop new technologies, or conduct studies that advance oral healthcare.

Who it’s for:
Ideal for detail-oriented individuals with a passion for data, science, and improving dental care through evidence-based research.

Required skills/education:

• Advanced degrees (Master’s, PhD, or DDS/DMD) in dental science, biology, or related fields.
• Strong background in research methodologies, statistics, and data analysis.

Perks or growth potential:

• Opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking discoveries.
• High demand for researchers in both private and academic sectors.
• Competitive salaries and potential for leadership roles in research organizations.

2. Dental Educator

What it is:
A dental educator teaches and mentors aspiring dental professionals, either in universities, training programs, or consulting roles with practices.

Who it’s for:
Perfect for experienced dental professionals who enjoy teaching, public speaking, and shaping the future of dentistry.

Required skills/education:

• A DDS/DMD or dental hygiene degree (often with additional certifications or a master’s degree in education or public health).
• Extensive clinical experience and strong communication skills.

Perks or growth potential:

• Long-term job stability in academic institutions.
• Opportunities for consulting, speaking engagements, and authoring educational content.
• Competitive salaries with benefits like tenure and academic advancement.

3. Dental Social Media Influencer

What it is:
A professional who builds a personal brand online to promote dental products, services, and innovations through engaging social media content.

Who it’s for:
Creative, tech-savvy individuals with an eye for branding, content creation, and building online communities.

Required skills/education:

• Strong knowledge of social media marketing and content strategy.
• Photography, video editing, and copywriting skills.
• No formal education required, but dental expertise or credentials add credibility.

Perks or growth potential:

• Ability to partner with brands for lucrative sponsorship deals.
• Flexible, self-directed career path.
• Potential to grow into consulting or personal brand-based businesses.

4. New Dental Technology Engineer

What it is:
An engineer who designs, develops, and tests innovative technologies—such as diagnostic tools, software, or robotics—for modern dental practices.

Who it’s for:
Ideal for tech enthusiasts who want to work behind the scenes to transform the future of dentistry.

Required skills/education:

• Degree in engineering, computer science, biomedical engineering, or related fields.
• Knowledge of software development, AI, or medical device design.

Perks or growth potential:

• Work on cutting-edge technology shaping the dental industry.
• High salary potential in tech-focused roles.
• Opportunities to collaborate with startups, dental companies, or research institutions.

5. Dental Support Staff

What it is:
Front office professionals like office managers, schedulers, and administrative assistants who keep dental practices organized and running smoothly.

Who it’s for:
People with strong organizational, communication, and multitasking skills who enjoy working in a healthcare environment.

Required skills/education:

• High school diploma (associate or bachelor’s degree preferred for management roles).
• Customer service, scheduling, and basic financial management skills.

Perks or growth potential:

• Opportunities for advancement to office manager or operations roles.
• Stable, people-focused career in healthcare.
• Valuable experience for transitioning into other dental or administrative roles.

6. Dental Entrepreneur

What it is:
A professional who builds and grows their own business within the dental industry, whether a product, service, or platform like DentalPost.

Who it’s for:
Driven, innovative individuals willing to take risks to create new solutions for the dental industry.

Required skills/education:

• Strong business acumen and leadership skills.
• Dental or healthcare experience is often helpful but not mandatory.

Perks or growth potential:

• Unlimited earning potential with the success of your venture.
• Creative freedom to shape your own path.
• Opportunity to make a lasting impact on the dental profession.

More unique jobs can be found here, especially if you’re starting a dental career later in life.