Written by: Branden Franzen
People often ask me if I plan to specialize after dental school. It’s a common question, and one that carries an underlying assumption: that general dentistry is somehow basic or limited. But in my experience, the opposite is true. The sky is the limit in general dentistry.
On any given day, a general dentist may place fillings and crowns, perform root canals, place implants, extract teeth, manage periodontal disease, deliver clear aligners, or treat emergencies. If there is such a thing as a “jack of all trades” in dentistry, it’s the general dentist. Ironically, some of my most challenging days in dental school haven’t been complex surgical cases, but so-called “basic” restorative work. Precision, judgment, and attention to detail are required regardless of the procedure—and often even more so when the margins for error are small.
I’ve always enjoyed surgery and tend to excel in it. For a time, I assumed that meant specialization was the natural next step. That perspective changed during a trip to the Colorado Surgical Institute. I walked into a room filled entirely with general dentists—none of them specialists—performing complex full-arch surgical cases. That experience reshaped my thinking. It reinforced a mindset that has stayed with me ever since: if someone else has done it, so can I.
General dentists are often compared to quarterbacks of the dental healthcare team, but I see the role more like the catcher in baseball. The catcher sees the entire field. They call the game, direct others, anticipate problems, and manage the flow. Similarly, the general dentist diagnoses across systems, coordinates with specialists, works closely with the lab and hygiene team, and ultimately owns the outcome. Even when referrals are made, responsibility remains with the general dentist.
That breadth comes with a significant mental load. The list of continuing education courses I want to take feels endless. Add to that business podcasts, leadership books, and practice management learning, and it becomes clear that general dentistry demands lifelong growth. This is not a profession where you can stand still.
There’s a quote that often gets shortened to the detriment of generalists: “A jack of all trades is a master of none.” The full quote tells a different story: “A jack of all trades is a master of none, but oftentimes better than a master of one.” I believe in striving to be a general dentist who truly masters their scope—and if I’m not competent at a procedure, I won’t perform it. General dentistry isn’t about doing everything casually; it’s about doing the right things exceptionally well.
This field fits me because the scope is vast and the ceiling is high. I’ve always been driven to push limits and expand boundaries, and general dentistry allows exactly that. I envision a career where I move from a full-arch case in one operatory to a Class II restoration in the next—and perform both to the same standard. That standard is simple: What would I do if this were my wife in the chair?
I recognize that I am still a student. But ambition matters. When paired with disciplined study, intentional mentorship, and humility, ambition becomes a strength. With the right opportunities and guidance, I know general dentistry will provide me with the most fulfilling career I could imagine.
To students and practicing general dentists alike, remember this: the beauty of general dentistry is that you can carve out whatever niche you choose. “General” does not mean simple. It means comprehensive. It means responsibility. It means being the person your community depends on.
Be confident in that role—and respect the weight it carries.
Join me as I continue my journey into the world of dentistry—learning, growing, and advancing patient care.
Visit my website to follow along: https://brandenfranzendent.wixsite.com/brandenfranzendental.
