Dentists diagnose congenital defects and acquired diseases in the mouth and treat such diseases. The job involves promoting general dental protection through advice and teaching about dental hygiene and dental cleaning, but also treating dental diseases with various methods. In their work, dentists often use X-rays of teeth and jaws for diagnosis. Dentist is a certified healthcare profession.

Dentists can run their own dental practice, conduct research and teaching or manage dental care on behalf of the state and municipalities. Many dentists specialize in one or more areas of expertise in the field, such as pediatric dentistry or orthodontics.