While you are in dental school, take a look around. The teachers you have, the researchers you work with may represent the perfect profession for you. 

Many educators point to the academic environment as a big plus of the profession. As an educator or researcher, you will be working in an intellectually stimulating and challenging environment.

You can also create a job that suits your particular interest, combining teaching with clinical practice and/or research. You may spend time writing for academic journals, exploring new technologies and materials or assuming administrative responsibilities. 

You can start out in private practice and enter academic practice when you have gained the experience you want and need.