What is the Average Salary of Dentists in the United States?

If you’ve ever wondered how much dentists earn in the United States, the numbers might surprise you. The average dentist salary​ is around $229,651 per year. However, this figure doesn’t tell the whole story. Salaries can vary widely depending on where you work, your level of experience, and whether you specialize in a specific area of dentistry. For example:

• Dentists in big cities often earn more than those in rural areas.

• Specialists like orthodontists or oral surgeons typically make higher incomes.

• Owning your own practice can significantly boost your earnings.

These factors make dentistry not only a rewarding career but also a financially promising one.

Key Takeaways

• Dentists in the U.S. make about $229,651 on average, but this changes with location, experience, and job type.

• Specialists like orthodontists and oral surgeons earn much more. Some top specialists make over $300,000 a year.

• New dentists start at about $120,608. With more experience, they can earn over $300,000.

• Where you work matters a lot. Cities usually pay more than small towns.

• Private practice can pay more over time than corporate jobs, even though corporate jobs may start with higher pay.

Dentist Salaries in the United States

National Average Salary

When it comes to the average dentist salary in the United States, the numbers can vary depending on the source. For instance:

• The American Dental Association (ADA) reported that general dentists in private practice earned an average of $218,710 in 2023.

• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary for general dentists was $180,830 as of May 2020.

• ZipRecruiter lists a lower national average of $166,403.

These differences highlight how factors like data collection methods and job roles can influence reported averages. However, you can expect the average dentist salary to fall somewhere between $166,000 and $229,651 annually, depending on your role and location.

Median Salary vs. Top Earners

The median salary for dentists is around $160,000. This means half of all dentists earn less than this amount, while the other half earn more. But here’s where things get interesting—specialists like orthodontists and oral surgeons often earn significantly higher salaries. These top earners can make well over $300,000 annually, creating a noticeable gap between the median and the highest salaries in the field. If you’re considering a specialization, it could be a lucrative path.

Entry-Level vs. Experienced Dentists

Your experience level plays a huge role in determining your salary as a dentist. Entry-level dentists typically earn around $120,608 per year, which translates to about $55 per hour. As you gain experience, your earnings increase. Mid-career dentists make between $80 and $100 per hour, with an annual salary of $152,288. For highly experienced dentists, hourly wages can exceed $150, though exact annual figures vary.

Experience Level	Average Hourly Wage	Average Annual Wage
Entry-level dentists	$55	$120,608
Mid-career dentists	$80 - $100	$152,288
Experienced dentists	> $150	N/A

If you’re just starting out, don’t worry—your earning potential grows significantly as you gain skills and build your reputation.

Dentist Salary by State

Highest-Paying States

If you’re aiming to maximize your earnings as a dentist, some states stand out for offering the highest salaries. Delaware leads the pack with an impressive average salary of $233,860. New Hampshire follows closely at $225,140, while Oregon, Rhode Island, and Connecticut also offer lucrative pay. Here’s a quick look at the top-paying states:

State	Average Salary
Delaware	$233,860
New Hampshire	$225,140
Oregon	$207,370
Rhode Island	$206,600
Connecticut	$197,910

These states often have a higher demand for dental services or a higher cost of living, which can drive up salaries. If you’re flexible about where you practice, these locations might be worth considering.

Lowest-Paying States

On the flip side, some states offer lower salaries for dentists. Vermont, for example, has an average annual salary of $127,120, making it one of the lowest-paying states. South Carolina, Idaho, and West Virginia also fall on the lower end of the spectrum. Here’s a breakdown:

State	Avg. Annual Salary
Vermont	$127,120
South Carolina	$137,950
Idaho	$141,890
West Virginia	$146,230
New Mexico	$147,460

While these states may not offer the highest pay, they often have a lower cost of living, which can balance out your overall financial situation.

Regional Trends in Dentist Salaries

Dentist salaries vary significantly across regions in the United States. The West Coast, for instance, tends to offer higher salaries compared to the Midwest. States like Minnesota and Michigan in the Midwest have average salaries of $211,100 and $198,440, respectively. Meanwhile, West Coast states like Oregon and California often exceed $200,000 annually. Here’s a comparison:

Region	State	Average Salary
Midwest	Minnesota	$211,100
Midwest	Michigan	$198,440
West Coast	Oregon	$207,370
West Coast	California	N/A

These trends reflect differences in population density, demand for dental care, and regional economic factors. If you’re planning your career, understanding these trends can help you choose the best location to practice.

General Dentists vs. Specialist Dentists

When it comes to dentist salaries, there’s a noticeable difference between general dentists and specialists. Let’s break it down so you can see how these roles compare.

General Dentist Salary Overview

General dentists form the backbone of the dental profession. They handle a wide range of procedures, from routine cleanings to fillings and crowns. On average, general dentists earn a solid income. Here’s what the numbers look like:

• The mean annual wage for general dentists was $160,160 as of May 2021.

• In May 2020, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported an average annual wage of $180,830.

• According to ZipRecruiter, the national average salary for general dentists is $166,403.

These figures show that general dentists enjoy a stable and rewarding career. If you’re considering this path, you’ll find it offers a great balance of work and income.

Orthodontist Salary

Orthodontists specialize in straightening teeth and correcting bites, which often leads to higher earning potential. However, the journey to becoming an orthodontist can come with its own challenges. For example, new graduates sometimes struggle to find full-time positions. One orthodontist mentioned earning around $140,000 three years after graduation, which he felt was low compared to his general dentist peers.

Many orthodontists work part-time across multiple practices to make ends meet early in their careers. Despite these hurdles, experienced orthodontists often earn significantly more than general dentists, making this a lucrative specialization in the long run.

Pediatric Dentist Salary

If you love working with kids, pediatric dentistry might be the perfect fit for you. Pediatric dentists focus on treating children and adolescents, and their salaries reflect the specialized nature of their work. Here’s what you can expect:

• The average salary for pediatric dentists in the U.S. is approximately $255,538 annually, according to ZipRecruiter.

• Most pediatric dentists earn between $170,000 and $300,000.

• Some top earners make as much as $399,500, while a small percentage earn between $97,000 and $124,499.

Comparably reports a slightly lower average salary of $198,647, which includes bonuses. Entry-level pediatric dentists may start at $37,592, but experienced professionals can earn up to $784,854. If you’re passionate about helping young patients, this field offers both emotional and financial rewards.

Other Specialist Salaries (e.g., Oral Surgeons, Periodontists)

If you’re thinking about specializing in dentistry, you’re probably wondering how much specialists earn. The good news? Specializing can significantly boost your income. Specialists like oral surgeons and periodontists often earn much more than general dentists. Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect.

Oral surgeons are among the highest-paid dental professionals. They perform complex procedures like wisdom tooth extractions and jaw surgeries. On average, oral surgeons earn around $396,000 annually. This makes it one of the most lucrative paths in dentistry. If you enjoy surgery and don’t mind the extra years of training, this could be a great option for you.

Periodontists, who focus on gum health and dental implants, also earn impressive salaries. Their average income is about $270,000 per year. This specialty is perfect if you’re interested in helping patients maintain healthy gums and prevent tooth loss.

Endodontists, the specialists who handle root canals, earn an average of $299,000 annually. While their work is highly specialized, it’s also in high demand. Patients often need their expertise to save damaged teeth.

Here’s a quick breakdown of average salaries for various dental specialties:

Specialty	Average Salary
Oral Surgery	$396K
Endodontics	$299K
Orthodontics	$270K
Periodontics	$270K
Pediatric Dentistry	$243K
General Dentists	$172K
Prosthodontists	~$200K

As you can see, specialists generally earn more than general dentists. However, the extra training and education required for these roles can be challenging. If you’re passionate about a specific area of dentistry, the financial rewards and job satisfaction can make it all worthwhile. So, which specialty sparks your interest?

Factors Influencing Dentist Salaries

Geographic Location

Where you choose to practice dentistry can have a big impact on your paycheck. Dentists in urban areas often earn higher salaries because of the increased cost of living and greater demand for services. Metropolitan areas also offer more job opportunities, which can drive up wages. On the other hand, rural areas may not pay as much, but they come with their own perks. For example, starting salaries in rural locations can reach $200,000 or more. Plus, the lower cost of living means your money goes further.

Rural areas also sweeten the deal with incentives like loan repayment assistance and sign-on bonuses. These benefits can make up for the lower base salaries, giving you a solid financial foundation. Whether you prefer the hustle and bustle of a city or the quiet charm of the countryside, your location plays a key role in shaping your earnings.

Years of Experience

Your experience level is another major factor in determining your salary. As a new dentist, you might start with a lower income, but don’t worry—it grows quickly. Entry-level dentists often earn around $120,000 annually. With a few years under your belt, your salary can jump significantly. Mid-career dentists typically make between $150,000 and $200,000 per year.

If you stick with it, the rewards keep coming. Highly experienced dentists can earn well over $300,000 annually, especially if they specialize or run their own practice. The more skills and expertise you gain, the more you can charge for your services. So, while the early years might feel like a grind, the long-term payoff is worth it.

Type of Practice (Private Practice vs. Group Practice)

The type of practice you choose also affects your earnings. Private practice dentists tend to earn more over time. For example:

• Dentists in private practice start with salaries just under $220,000 and can earn nearly $300,000 after 25 years.

• Corporate dentists, on the other hand, peak at around $300,000 during their mid-career but see a decline after 15 years.

Corporate dentistry often offers higher starting salaries, which can be appealing if you’re just starting out. In 2019, general practitioners in Dental Support Organizations (DSOs) earned a median income of $160,000, while private practitioners made $204,710. However, private practice comes with business expenses that can reduce your take-home pay.

If you’re looking for stability and a strong start, corporate dentistry might be the way to go. But if you want long-term earning potential and independence, private practice could be your best bet.

Additional Benefits and Perks

When you think about a dentist’s salary, it’s easy to focus on the numbers. But the perks and benefits that come with the job can add even more value to your career. Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect beyond your paycheck.

1. Health and Retirement Benefits

Most dental practices offer comprehensive health insurance. This often includes medical, dental (of course!), and vision coverage. Some employers also provide retirement plans like a 401(k), often with matching contributions. These benefits help you secure your future while keeping your current expenses manageable.

2. Paid Time Off (PTO)

Dentists typically enjoy generous PTO packages. You might get paid vacation days, sick leave, and even personal days. Some practices also offer extended time off for continuing education or professional development. This gives you the flexibility to recharge or grow your skills without losing income.

3. Continuing Education Support

Dentistry is a field that’s always evolving. Many employers cover the cost of continuing education courses, certifications, or even conferences. This not only helps you stay updated but also boosts your earning potential. Some practices may even reimburse tuition for advanced training or specializations.

Tip: Ask about continuing education perks during job interviews. It’s a great way to grow your career without extra financial stress.

4. Bonuses and Profit Sharing

Many dentists receive performance-based bonuses. Some practices also offer profit-sharing plans, where you get a percentage of the practice’s earnings. These perks can significantly increase your annual income.

5. Flexible Schedules

Dentists often enjoy flexible work hours. Whether you prefer a four-day workweek or part-time hours, many practices accommodate your lifestyle. This flexibility makes it easier to balance work and personal life.

These perks make dentistry more than just a high-paying job. They create a career that supports your financial, professional, and personal goals.

Dentistry offers a rewarding career with competitive pay. The average dentist salary in the U.S. is around $163,210 annually, but your earnings depend on several factors. Where you work, your specialty, and your experience all play a role. For example, urban areas often pay more, and specialists like orthodontists or oral surgeons earn higher salaries due to their advanced training.

Understanding these variations helps you make smarter career choices. If you’re just starting out, knowing that entry-level salaries grow significantly with experience can keep you motivated. Here’s a quick recap of the key factors that influence dentist salaries:

Factor	Description
Location	Urban areas usually offer higher pay, while rural areas may provide incentives like loan repayment.
Specialty	Specialists earn more due to additional training and expertise.
Work Settings	Private practices often pay more than public health or hospital settings.
Years of Experience	Salaries increase significantly as you gain experience.

By considering these factors, you can plan your career path to align with your financial and professional goals. Whether you aim to specialize or open your own practice, dentistry provides plenty of opportunities to thrive.

FAQ

What is the highest-paying dental specialty?

Oral surgeons top the list, earning an average of $396,000 annually. Their expertise in complex procedures like jaw surgeries and extractions makes this specialty highly lucrative. If you enjoy surgery, this could be your path to a rewarding career.

How long does it take to become a dentist?

It usually takes about 8 years. You’ll spend 4 years earning a bachelor’s degree and another 4 years in dental school. Specializing? Add 2-4 more years for advanced training.

Do dentists earn more in private practice or corporate settings?

Private practice dentists often earn more over time. Corporate settings may offer higher starting salaries, but private practice provides long-term earning potential and independence. Your choice depends on your career goals.

Are there benefits to working in rural areas?

Yes! Rural areas often offer incentives like loan repayment programs, sign-on bonuses, and higher starting salaries. Plus, the lower cost of living means your paycheck stretches further.

Can dentists increase their income with experience?

Absolutely! Entry-level dentists start around $120,000 annually. With experience, your salary can grow to $300,000 or more, especially if you specialize or own a practice. Your earning potential increases as you build skills and reputation.