I was just wondering for those of you out that have some experience with this, what is it like being a dentist in NYC? Is it very competitive? How difficult is it to open a practice there? What is the income like? I really love the city a lot and sometimes think about moving there after school, but I know how insanely expensive it is and although I'm sure dentists do get paid more there is it really enough to counterbalance the expense of living and operating a practice there? Any info that any of you might have would be greatly appreciated.

100 views and no repiles? Doesn't anyone know anything about dentistry in New York???

Hate to break it to you, but NYC is super saturated with dentists.

I figured that was the case, but what exactly does that mean? Specifics would be great..

I figured that was the case, but what exactly does that mean? Specifics would be great..

It means that unless you have some awesome hookup, as a new grad you will start out at the bottom and be constantly on the search for something better. "Bottom" means working for a senior doctor and seeing the patients in their practice who have insurance plans which reimburse quite poorly. It is not uncommon to work long hours and Saturdays. My friends & I have only been working for almost 1 year and we've all had multiple jobs we've quit. I have never worked in any other part of the country so I have no comparison. But I did go to dental school outside of NYC and I remember being lectured about reviewing contracts for potential job offers, all the things you must consider as an associate to make sure you are not getting screwed, having a lawyer review your contract, etc. Of all the job interviews I went on in NYC, no one offered a contract and everything was verbal - as in "Which days do you want? The hours are 9 - 6." My current jobs have no contracts, just verbal agreements. Jobs are a dime a dozen so at least you know you will always have some work. It may not be the most ideal comprehensive care fee-for-service job, but it will be something to pay the rent.

Thanks Griffin. So I suppose you must think that the struggle is worth it if you came back to NY after dental school?