How does the reality of dentistry compare to what you expected?

I’m a newer associate and I’m trying to get a realistic picture of what this field actually looks like long-term.

People always say dentistry is a “good career” financially, and I’m not denying that the earning potential is there. But what I’m experiencing right now feels off. The hours are long, the driving is a lot, I’m picking up extra days, and by the time I get home I’m wiped. I’m constantly checking my own production and codes because things slip through the cracks if I don’t stay on top of it.

And a lot of associate positions don’t come with benefits no PTO, no health insurance, no retirement… which makes the whole thing feel less stable.

So my question is honestly this: Is this just what the beginning looks like? Or has dentistry changed compared to how it used to be?

I’d really like to hear from dentists who’ve been in the field for a while how did your early years feel, and how different is it now? And from newer associates is this what you’re seeing too?

Just trying to understand the bigger picture. I don’t really hear people talk about this openly, so I’m hoping to get some real insight here