When a fresh dental graduate steps out with high hopes of starting their professional journey, reality often hits hard. Finding a job itself becomes a struggle. And if we do find one, the salary is so low that it doesn’t even cover our basic living expenses.
But salary is just one part of the problem. Many of us are willing to work for less, just for the opportunity to learn. But in many clinics, the owner dentists don’t trust freshers with patients. Months pass by, and we’re still just observing. Despite being qualified, we don’t get a chance to grow clinically or build confidence.
Senior dentists often forget they were once in the same position. Why is there so little trust in new graduates? Why is there no mentorship or guidance? Confidence only grows when we’re allowed to work, make mistakes, and improve. When that chance is denied, motivation begins to fade.
On top of this, there’s social pressure. People around us ask, “How much longer will it take to settle?” They compare dentistry with other professions—”Look at them, they’re already earning well, why aren’t you?”
Under this constant pressure, many young dentists start losing hope. The passion they once had begins to fade. Many are even forced to leave the profession—not because they lack talent, but because they never got the opportunity they deserved.
For those coming from underdeveloped areas, the situation is even tougher. With extremely low pay and no proper clinical exposure, they can neither afford living expenses nor build a future in dentistry.
It’s time we start talking about this openly. Trust, mentorship, and fair opportunities are essential. The dental community needs to stand by its new graduates and give them the space to grow.