Is being a pediatric dentist financially stable when you accept too many kids on programs such as medicaid?

Hi Micah,

I understand you are concerned about the salary received for each profession, but I would say that although financial performance is essential, it should not be the principal at the time of opting for a professional career. When you do what you really like, the money comes as a natural consequence of your work, effort and dedication.

Because you enjoy working with children, choose to work as a pediatric dentist. I'm sure, with much love, effort and dedication by the activity, you will get a great return. It's only a matter of time. Go ahead, and good luck!

I agree with Daniela that it is too soon to be worrying about the mix of patients you are going to have in your practice.
There are as well many potential practice settings in which you may find yourself. Traditionally, most dentists have started up as solo practitioners, but that's becoming more and more difficult, due not only to the financial realities of setting up a solo practice, but also because most dental school graduates already are under significant debt burden.
Now, more dentists are finding themselves as associates in practices of various sizes, partners in smaller or larger group practices, or working outside of private practice altogether--in education, research, and public health agencies.
In private practice, there are two very general poles of practice approach--low, volume, high fee practice, and low fee, high-volume practice. But not everyone has the luxury of practicing exactly as they ideally would see themselves--it depends upon the local population and the larger economy.
You may not be able to control the mix of patients in your practice situation, but as you get closer to graduation you'll get plenty of good information from faculty, friends and colleagues. Keep your ears and mind open--your idea of what the ideal practice situation might be may well change as you get closer to graduation.
Good luck!