Detailed Dentist Resume Sample and Writing Tips

Anyone who has ever experienced the pain and frustration of a severe toothache knows how valuable dentists are. As a dentist, you can relieve pain, give people smiles to be proud of, and even detect potentially serious illnesses. You deserve an amazing job in a clinic that provides an awesome work environment and fair compensation. When it comes to skills and experience, you’ve got it made!

Now, it’s time to communicate those skills to hiring managers.  Yes, you’ve got to have a great resume. At first glance, that seems like a difficult task, but help has arrived. As long as you follow the resume tips below, and pay close attention to our dentist resume sample, you’ll be just fine.

Build Your Skills List From The Job Description

Before you compose the skills section of the resume, take another look at the job listing. What capabilities have they emphasized? What is it that they are most looking for in a dentist? 

These are the in-demand skills employers look for that you should list first. For example, if the job listing states, “Experience in sedation dentistry preferred”, then by all means list that skill at the top, so it gets priority.

Here’s a helpful way to prioritize the skills section of your resume:

1. Must-have skills from the job listing
2. Skills that are generally considered to be high-demand in your field
3. Mandatory skills for obtaining the job you want
4. Nice-to-have skills and soft skills

Use this order of priorities to grab the hiring manager’s attention, and then show them you are fully qualified on all levels.

Inject Personality Based on Employer Needs

Nobody needs to tell you that your personality and bedside manner are absolutely key to your success. Now, how do you communicate that in your resume? More importantly, how do you showcase the personal characteristics that this employer is most looking for?

Start by understanding their needs. A dental urgent care is likely looking for someone who is personable but doesn’t necessarily need someone to form deep ongoing dentist-patient relationships. On the other hand, that’s probably what a family or pediatric practice does want.

Imagine that you have applied to work at a pediatric dentist’s office. You could showcase that you have the right personality and temperament as follows:

Emphasize Your Ability to Work in a Team

In most offices, you will work with a team of other dentists, front office staff, hygienists, and other practitioners. When things get busy or stressful, everyone must be able to work together. Show that you can communicate, compromise, and collaborate to ensure that all patients receive the best treatment.

Consider a Separate Section For Certifications

In addition to your degree, you may have received many certifications that qualify you to perform certain procedures or to practice various dental specialties. You can include these in the education section of your resume, but that may not be the best choice. 

If your certifications are particularly relevant to the job you are seeking, consider creating a separate section for them. This will make them stand out, and be more memorable to the office hiring manager.

Deliver Your Summary in The First Person

Lead your resume off with a concise summary. This should communicate your skills, experience, and dedication. It should also show why you are a good fit for this particular job. Write this in the first person to make it more sincere.

Resume Sample for a Dentist (Word version)

Here is a brief resume example. It includes many best practices. Feel free to use it as a reference for writing. 

Download resume example (.docx)

Dentist Resume Example (text version)

Final Tip: Include Memberships and Honors

If you are a member of any professional associations or have received relevant honors, add these to your resume. They help to solidify your reputation and professionalism!