Let's Start From the Very Beginning Part 2: Writing a Resume, a Cover Letter, and a Letter of Intent as a Dentist

 

 

Reviewed by Dr Medha Gupta BDS, MDS, and MedComms Expert

 

Dentistry is a largely structured profession today in comparison to a decade ago. Though there is scope for more, with corporate players investing in the dental market and many dentists stepping out to invest in dental chains, private dental colleges and hospitals, and dental technician labs, dental professionals are required for roles that go beyond clinical practice. Writing a resume for dentists is thus a need more than a choice. Together with writing cover letters in dentistry and learning the applications of a Letter of Intent (LOI) in dentistry, we are back with Part of the series ‘Let's Start From the Very Beginning.’ This time for the dentists.

 

 

Resume for Dentists

Skilled dentists are worth their weight in gold. Their hands and tech knowledge can conjure smiles in no time and change a person physically, mentally, and emotionally. As a dentist, your resume must reflect that. 

 

In our article, ‘Writing Your Medical Odyssey: Are Resumes the New Roadmap?’, we discussed the top points of resume writing that hold across industries:

 

• Create a comprehensive picture of the credentials, certificates, and awards using the SUMMARY, as well as work and education information.

• Internships, observerships, and volunteer ships can all add value.

• Concise editing, clear language, and emphasis on key events in the career path.

• Describe your soft skills and the value you bring to the particular organization's settings.

• When adding employment experiences to map out your professional journey and create a narrative, keep them in chronological order.

A few points that differentiate a dental resume from a medical one:

 

Practical skill set: Dental resumes emphasize hands-on dental skills (e.g., restorative work, prosthodontics), while medical resumes focus on broader clinical skills and specialties (e.g., internal medicine, surgery).

Clinicals over certifications: Dental resumes highlight patient cases involving procedures like crowns, bridges, and extractions, whereas medical resumes include broader rotations, patient management across various specialties, and related qualifications.

Certifications and Licenses: Dental professionals often list specific certifications like RDH or DDS/DMD, while medical resumes include board certifications in areas like Pediatrics or Cardiology, along with MBBS and MD/DO credentials.

 

Special tips for a dental resume by Dr Medha Gupta, ANASTOMOS’ Content Manager and Social Outreach Officer who is also a Dental Prosthodontist and Implantologist:

 

The SUMMARY should be squeaky clean and smiling like your patient’s teeth: 

Resumes for dental jobs need 4 points in the summary: 

• Your ability to handle a diverse and voluminous patient flow setting

• Your skills with the latest concepts, devices, and dental materials

• Communications skills

• Points that showcase that you keep pace with the dynamic trends in dentistry. 
  

• Quantify Patient Volume and Procedure Efficiency: 

 

Highlight metrics such as average patient volume per day or the time required for complex procedures. Efficiency and the ability to handle patients can help you stand out.

 

• Technology Proficiency: 

Skills with specific dental technologies (e.g., intraoral scanners, CAD/CAM systems, AI, 3D printers, etc.) add value. Tech-savvy professionals who can bring digital expertise to patient care.

 

• Patient communication and organic convincing power: 

Discuss any specific approaches or strategies you use to help patients understand procedures, reduce anxiety, or encourage post-care compliance.

 

 

Dr Alpa Newaskar, a Dental implantologist from Pune, says,

"It should be you on the paper—authentic and professional. All your dedicated years and hard work in the profession should be mentioned precisely. It’s always difficult to read long paragraphs about education and skills; instead, they should be written in point format for quick review and understanding. A short section in the resume about your personality can be highlighted, giving insight into you as a person. Clearly stating your expectations for the new job, both in terms of monetary compensation and work environment can help along the way. It’s important to mention how you can add value to the new position and why it’s a great opportunity for you."

 

 

Writing a Cover Letter in Dentistry

Cover letters for dentists are an adjunct to your resume. A few things to keep in mind:

 

• Attention-Grabbing Introduction: Start your profile with a hook that captures recruiters' interest—an introduction of  50-70 words.

• Professional Templates: Choose templates and examples that align with industry standards to give your cover letter a polished look; it must be eye-catching yet formal.

• The Standout Achievements: Select a unique, noteworthy accomplishment to showcase what sets you apart.

• Add that Cover Letter even if you are a fresher: Even if you are new to the field, write a cover letter that demonstrates your enthusiasm and potential.

 

Pro tip: Consider citing real-life stories or anecdotes. For instance, your unmatched attention to detail in diagnosing and treating a patient who had been unsuccessful at multiple dental clinics. 

You may also cite the names of big players in the industry—well-known dental clinics, dentists, and dental companies that you have worked with. 

 

 

What is the Letter of Intent (LOI) in Dentistry?

Letter of Intent (LOI) in dentistry is applicable in scenarios:

 

• The letter to buy or sell a dental practice.

A document that’s not necessarily legal, and is subject to change after negotiation between the buyer and the seller. It includes the proposed terms of a transaction. 

• It must lay the groundwork for the rest of the talks and transition.

• It may convince the seller that you are the right buyer.

 

It contains the following essential parts:

 

• Included and excluded assets in the transaction

• Purchase price, asset allocation

• Due diligence period

• Intentions around selling the property

• Details of the sellers' transition

• The employees

• All restrictive covenants

 

For the Dental School Letter of Intent:

 

A letter of intent lets you show who you are beyond academics. The admissions committees now have a more complete picture of you as a person and future dental student. It highlights qualities like leadership, community involvement, and resilience that your grades alone don't show.

 

To make your letter memorable, share personal stories that reveal your passion for dentistry—like an experience where you saw how a smile changed a patient's life. These examples help showcase your motivation and commitment to the field.

 

 

‘Let's Start From the Very Beginning’ With ANASTOMOS

Anastomos is India’s first network for healthcare professionals, supporting careers from student days to experienced practice. They offer 10 services, including job opportunities for permanent, locum, and contract roles, as well as mentorships, courses, and career programs. 

 

The ‘Let's Start From the Very Beginning’ drive puts together the secret recipes to resumes for dentists, dental doctor cover letters, and letters of intent (LOI) for the dental industry—from the experts within the dental field who have been on both sides of the table.

 

If you want to learn more or need help applying for dentist jobs, you can add your bio to ANASTOMOS for free. 

 

If you are a recruiter or interviewer in the dental industry, please feel free to post your job openings with us, and we will assist you in finding the best candidates for the position from a cohort of 1300+ healthcare professionals.