What does a dentist do? – Tasks and work environment
A dentist works to prevent, diagnose, and treat diseases and injuries in the oral cavity and jaw system. Tasks include everything from examinations, radiography, and cavity treatment to more advanced procedures such as root canals, surgery, and prosthetics. Many dentists also lead teams consisting of dental assistants and hygienists, which requires teamwork and leadership skills. The work environment is technologically advanced with high hygiene standards, often taking place in clinics within both public and private sectors. Patient contact is central and requires empathy and pedagogical skills, especially as many patients experience anxiety about dental visits.
Salary development over time
The profession of dentistry has experienced a stable and positive salary development in recent years. In 2022, the average monthly salary was 52,700 SEK, which increased to 54 400 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has continued to rise to 54 600 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 3.6% over three years. Factors driving this development include a continued high demand for dentists in the labor market, increased requirements for specialized competence, and a growing population with greater needs for both preventive and advanced dental care. Salaries are also influenced by competition between regions and sectors, with private providers often able to offer higher wages to attract experienced dentists.
Dentist salary – a complete overview
- Average salary: 54 600 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 38,900 SEK/month (men), 39,900 SEK/month (women)
- Highest salary: 75,300 SEK/month (men), 71,500 SEK/month (women)
- Hourly wage: 328 SEK
- Gender differences: Women earn 92% of what men do (men 58 100 SEK, women 53 400 SEK)
- Regional differences: Salary levels may vary between regions, but generally demand and wages are higher in metropolitan areas and rural areas with high recruitment needs.
Education and qualifications
Becoming a dentist requires a long and qualified education. To work as a licensed dentist in Sweden, a dentistry degree, a license from the National Board of Health and Welfare (Socialstyrelsen), and often some practical experience are required. The education includes both theory and practical training with patient contact already during studies. Admission to the program requires high grades or results from the university entrance exam.
- Formal degree: Dentistry degree from university (5 years)
- Licensing: Issued by Socialstyrelsen after degree completion
- Practical training: Clinical practice included in the education
- Prerequisites: Scientific upper secondary education with specific eligibility
- Further specialization: Opportunities to specialize in areas such as orthodontics or maxillofacial surgery
The dental profession offers great opportunities for an international career, as Swedish dental education has a good reputation and is recognized in many countries. Additionally, continuous professional development is standard, as dental technology advances rapidly.
Common benefits and compensations
In addition to the base salary, dentists often receive benefits such as extra vacation days, wellness allowances, occupational pension, and opportunities for further training. Many employers also offer flexible working hours, skills development support, and in some cases bonuses or performance-based compensation. Particularly in the private sector, benefits such as private health insurance and access to modern equipment are common.
Competition and challenges
Competition for positions varies between regions, but generally there is a shortage of dentists in large parts of the country. The recruitment situation is paradoxical, with difficulty finding experienced dentists while a relatively high proportion leave the profession or work part-time. Challenges in the profession include high demands for patient safety, continuous technological development, and work environments where stress and physical strain injuries can occur. At the same time, the labor market is stable, and demand is expected to increase further in the coming years.
Tips for aspiring dentists
To succeed as a dentist, it is good to combine thoroughness with strong communication skills, as patient contact and documentation are central parts of the work. Resilience to stress is helpful during high work pace and unexpected situations, while empathy and listening skills facilitate dealing with patients with dental anxiety. An interest in technology and continuous development is also valuable, as new methods and materials are constantly introduced. Teamwork skills ease collaboration with dental assistants and hygienists, and good problem-solving abilities are needed for diagnostics and treatment. Finally, perseverance is important both during the long education and in daily work to maintain high quality of care over time.
Key facts about dentists
- Education level: Dentistry degree (5 years) and licensing
- Work environment: Clinic-based, public and private sectors
- Demand: Very high, especially in rural areas and big cities
- Typical work form: Full-time, daytime
- Specialization: Opportunities for further training in areas like orthodontics and maxillofacial surgery
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the profession, there are good opportunities to advance to specialist dentist in fields such as prosthetics, endodontics, or orthodontics. Many experienced dentists also choose to become clinic managers, start their own practice, or work in research and education. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, job prospects are very good nationally, and demand is expected to increase further over the next five years. The recruitment situation is described as strained, meaning employers often compete for experienced dentists and offer attractive conditions. Currently, there are 375 job openings in the profession, highlighting the strong labor market.
Frequently asked questions about dentists
- What is the average salary of a dentist?
- A dentist has an average monthly salary of 54 600 SEK.
- How long is the education to become a dentist?
- The education lasts five years at university and leads to a degree and licensing.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn on average 92% of what men do in the profession.
- What opportunities for specialization are there?
- Opportunities exist to further specialize in areas such as orthodontics, prosthetics, or maxillofacial surgery.
- What is the job market like for dentists?
- The job market is very good with high demand and many available positions nationally.
- What are the highest and lowest salaries for dentists?
- The highest salary is 75,300 SEK per month and the lowest is 38,900 SEK, depending on education, sector, and experience.
- Can dentists work internationally?
- Yes, Swedish dental education is recognized in many countries and opens opportunities for an international career.
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