What does an ST-dentist do? – Tasks and work environment
An ST-dentist is a licensed dentist who further specializes in a dental discipline, such as oral surgery, orthodontics, or endodontics. Tasks include advanced patient treatment and participating in various training activities under supervision. Much of the work takes place in clinics within both public and private sectors, where the ST-dentist is responsible for diagnostics, treatment, and follow-up of patients with more complex dental care needs. The work environment is characterized by collaboration with other specialists, high medical standards, and requirements for continuous professional development.
Salary development over time
ST-dentists have experienced steady salary growth in recent years. The average salary increased from 52,700 SEK in 2022 to 54 400 SEK in 2023 and further to 54 600 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of approximately 3.6% during this period. The salary change has been relatively cautious, reflecting both the high starting salary for the profession and continued strong demand for specialist competence in dentistry. Explanations for the salary development include regional investments in specialist dental care, increased requirements for further education, and competition for experienced dentists. The market for ST-dentists remains favorable, as evidenced by the trend of increasing available positions and continued good employment prospects.
ST-dentist salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 54 600 SEK/month
- Lowest salary (men): 38,900 SEK/month
- Lowest salary (women): 39,900 SEK/month
- Highest salary (men): 75,300 SEK/month
- Highest salary (women): 71,500 SEK/month
- Hourly wage (average): 328 SEK
- Gender differences: Women earn 92% of what men do (men: 58 100 SEK, women: 53 400 SEK)
- Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on region and employer, but exact figures are unavailable
Education and qualifications
To become an ST-dentist, a license as a dentist and admission to a specialist training program in a dental discipline are required. The education includes both theoretical and practical components and typically lasts three years, with supervision and ongoing professional development as central elements. Prior clinical experience and good academic credentials are high demands for admission to an ST position.
- Dental degree: 5 years of university studies
- Licensure: Obtained after approved dental degree and practical training
- Specialist training (ST): 3 years within the chosen discipline
- Prerequisites: Clinical experience as a general dentist is recommended
- Certification: Approved specialist competence after completing ST and examination
ST-dentists often have opportunities to participate in international conferences and collaborations, which contributes to a broad network and continuous professional development. It is common for professionals within the specialization to quickly develop expert knowledge in their area. Working closely with research and development also provides an exciting insight into the future of dental care.
Common benefits and compensations
ST-dentists are often offered competitive benefits beyond the base salary, such as paid further education, supervision, flexible hours, extra vacation days, and subsidized wellness allowances. Many employers also provide pension contributions, insurance, and opportunities for professional development through courses and conferences. In some cases, relocation assistance or housing benefits may also be available to facilitate recruitment to regions with particular needs for specialists.
Competition and challenges
Competition for ST positions in dentistry is significant, especially within popular specialties and larger cities. Places are limited, and the application process is often rigorous, requiring high grades, references, and documented clinical experience. Challenges also include balancing clinical work, education, and private life, as workload can be intense at times. At the same time, there is a national shortage of specialists, creating good opportunities for those who succeed in establishing themselves in the profession. Meeting the training requirements demands dedication and perseverance.
Tips for aspiring ST-dentists
To succeed as an ST-dentist, it is beneficial to combine curiosity and analytical skills with a genuine interest in developing clinical competence. Early in your career, actively seeking experience in various dental disciplines and building good relationships with supervisors and colleagues is advantageous. Precision and stress tolerance are important qualities to handle advanced treatments and training demands. A tip is to participate continuously in further education and engage in research or quality projects, as these often weigh heavily in applications for ST positions. Good communication skills and teamwork facilitate daily work and staying updated with the latest knowledge in the field.
Key facts about ST-dentists
- Average salary: 54 600 SEK/month
- Salary range: 38,900–75,300 SEK/month
- Gender difference: Women earn 92% of men's salaries
- Education level: Dental degree + 3 years of specialist training
- Job market: 375 available jobs, good future prospects
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as an ST-dentist, there are good opportunities to work as a specialist within fields such as orthodontics, oral surgery, prosthetics, or endodontics. Many choose to remain in clinical practice, but it is also common to combine patient work with teaching, research, or leadership roles within the dental sector. According to the Employment Service, the outlook for dentists is very good, with high demand and increasing need for specialist competence nationwide. The number of available jobs is high, and forecasts indicate that demand will increase further in the coming five years, especially within the public sector and in smaller towns where recruitment difficulties are common.
Common questions about ST-dentists
- What does an ST-dentist earn?
- An ST-dentist has an average salary of 54 600 SEK per month.
- How long is the training to become an ST-dentist?
- The specialist training (ST) typically takes 3 years after obtaining a dental degree and licensure.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn on average 92% of what men do within the profession.
- What is the job market like for ST-dentists?
- The job market is very good with 375 available jobs within the profession and an increasing demand forecast.
- What benefits are common for ST-dentists?
- Common benefits include paid training, extra vacation days, wellness allowances, pension, and insurance.
- What is the highest salary for an ST-dentist?
- The highest salary is 75,300 SEK per month, which applies to a man with research training in the municipal sector.
- What is the lowest salary for an ST-dentist?
- The lowest salary is 38,900 SEK per month for men and 39,900 SEK for women.
