If you’re a dentist, you already know you’re a valued and esteemed member of the medical profession. But, for all those days when you’re feeling stressed out, here are a few reminders of why you went into this job in the first place.

You help people feel better – fast

Possibly nothing gets people in a better mood – or out of pain – quicker than fixing their tooth. Good dental care has physical, psychological and social benefits. In addition to reducing their risk of infection, fixing teeth can increase a patient’s self-esteem, and even lead to better career opportunities. That’s right – a bright smile may just be the tipping factor in that job interview!

You have flexibility

Need to leave work early to go to your own dentist appointment? Feel like giving yourself an extra vacation day? As a dentist, you’re the boss, so whatever you say goes! Best of all, you never have to bring your work home.

You’re not alone

Being a dentist often means being surrounded by a small, intimate group of associates. They may be made up of your assistants, front office receptionists and recall service. But, as a dentist, you’re never far from a close-knit set whose job it is to help people get better teeth!