Average Dentist Starting Salary in the US by Specialty for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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With an increasing demand for oral health services and ever-advancing technologies transforming the dental field, more individuals are striving towards building careers impacting the lives of others. Becoming a dentist is one of the most fulfilling professions with excellent growth potential. From improving smiles to changing lives, dentists have an incredible opportunity to use their expertise and create a positive impression on society.

Dentistry may not be among the quick degrees that pay well, but it shows optimistic job outlooks, not to mention a relatively higher starting salary. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (2021) projects an 8% increase in employment for dentists from 2020 to 2030. This means employment will rise by approximately 11,110 from the recorded 139,200 estimated total in 2020. Add to that an average entry level dentist salary of around $123,332 annually, according to PayScale.  

This article explores what is the starting salary for a dentist and the median annual wages for different types of dental professionals. To answer the question “How much does a dentist make in the US?," our team of experts compiled data on the highest and lowest paying states as well as the employment rate for certain states.

Average Dentist Starting Salary Table of Contents

1. Average Dentist Starting Salary
2. Highest and Lowest Dentist Salaries
3. Highest and Lowest Average Dentist Salary by State
4. States with the Highest and Lowest Dentist Employment
5. Cost of Dental School
6. Preparing for a Career in Dentistry
7. How Does Continuing Education Impact Dental Career Success?
8. What Strategies Can Dentists Use to Enhance Practice Administration?
9. What Other Career Opportunities Complement a Dental Career?
10. How Can Dentists Leverage Public Health to Enhance Patient Outcomes?
11. How Can Dentists Master Business and Practice Management?
12. Can interdisciplinary education enhance a dental career?
13. Challenges Dentists Face in Maintaining Work-Life Balance
14. Exploring Accelerated Education Options for Aspiring Dentists
15. Dentists' Salary vs Other Healthcare Professionals

Average Dentist Starting Salary

Dentists are well-compensated professionals. This shows in the high starting dentist salary. According to PayScale, professionals with less than a year of experience can expect a first year dentist salary of about $123,332 on average, including tips, bonuses, and overtime pay. That is computed based on 139 salaries. Meanwhile, for general dentists, the entry-level wage is approximately $126,962 based on 36 salaries. 

For dentists with experience, ranging from one to four years, the average compensation based on 529 salaries could reach about $139,782. That is approximately $6000 more than general dentists with the same experience based on 144 salaries. 

The more tenured dentists with a decade or two of experience could earn an average remuneration of $153,046 based on 202 salaries, while general dentists could get $148,802 on average based on 43 salaries. 

Dentists with over two decades of experience could earn an average of $166,924, while the average general dentist salary could amount to $177,483, much higher than the BLS’ recorded median pay of $164,010 per year for dentists in 2020.  

Highest and Lowest Dentist Salaries

According to the BLS (2021), $164,010 is the median annual wage for dentists in May 2020. The lowest 10% received less than $79,060 compensation, while the highest 10% gathered more than $208,000.

Some dentists operate their businesses. They often work alone or with a small staff. Other dentists have partners in their practice, while others work as associate dentists in already established dental practices. These different work setups could influence the income of dentists, not to mention their specialization and the location of their practice.

However, note that dentists’ salaries would vary according to their specialization and location.

Average Dentist Salary by Specialty

General dentists’ median annual wages in May 2020 are lower than the overall average at $158,000. Meanwhile, prosthodontists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, and orthodontists earn a median of $208,000. All other specialists receive $183,300. (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2021)

Dentists in the government sector receive a median annual wage of $178,680, while those in offices of dentists, outpatient care centers, and offices of physicians earn at least $10,000 less. (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2021)

Dental Practice Owner Salary

Dentists may go into business on their own or with business partners. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), half the private practice dentists work solo. By “solo," ADA means working as the only dentist in a dental office. Such solo dentists made up 50% of dentists in 2019. 

However, like in any business, dentists planning to venture into setting up their clinic must note that according to Dental Clinic Manual, the cost of building a new dental clinic or renovating an existing space to suit a dental clinic may range from $100 to $200 (or more) per square foot. That does not include equipment and does not take into consideration location premium yet. 

Meanwhile, a 2020 ADA report shows the average gross billings per private dental practice in 2019 could reach about $742,490 per general practice dentist or owner. As for specialists, it could be an approximate average of $1,059,890 gross billings. The median net income for dentists or owners may reach some $190,000 and about $285,000 for specialists.

A successfully operated dental clinic could generate an income higher than the average wage of dentists. Nevertheless, it is always best to consider all costs and risks before deciding to proceed with such a venture.  

Salaries of Other Related Professions

Dentists also require the assistance of other professionals to perform their duties. Here are occupations related to dentistry according to the PayScale (2022) and their median salaries.

• Dental and Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians and Medical Appliance Technicians are responsible for constructing, fitting, and repairing medical appliances and devices. Their median pay is $58,307.
• Dental assistants care for patients, taking their x rays, keeping records, and scheduling appointments. Their median pay is $36,503.
• Dental hygienists are those who examine patients for signs of oral diseases and provide preventive care. Their median pay is $63,596.

Highest and Lowest Average Dentist Salary by State

A dentist salary in US varies according to location. There are states where salaries are much higher. Based on BLS data, here are the states with the highest and lowest average dentist salaries grouped according to specialization. 

General Dentist

As defined by BLS, general dentists are those who examine and diagnose the dental conditions of patients. They treat diseases, injuries, and malformations of the teeth and gums. They may also treat diseases of the teeth’s nerve, pulp, and other dental tissues affecting oral hygiene and preservation of teeth. They may also fit dental appliances or give preventive care. This category does not include oral and maxillofacial surgeons, orthodontists, prosthodontists, and all other specialists. 

The national estimate on the annual mean wage for general dentists is $180,830 or $86.94 per hour. Rhode Island offers the highest annual mean wage at $258,920 or $124 per hour. Here is a shortlist of states with the highest wages for dentists. 

• Rhode Island: $258,920/year or $124/hour
• Vermont: $254,190/year or $122/hour
• Alaska: $242,850/year or $117/hour
• Maine: $236,060/year or $113/hour
• New Hampshire: $222,430 or $107/hour

Meanwhile, BLS records West Virginia as having the lowest dentist average salary. It amounts to $127,950 per year or $62 per hour. Here is a list of the five states with relatively lower salaries for dentists. 

• Utah: $147,730/year or $71/hour
• Louisiana: $145,980/year or $70/hour
• Wyoming: $133,750/year or $64/hour
• Kentucky: $128,850/year or $62/hour
• West Virginia: $127,950/year or $62/hour

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are dental specialists performing surgery and other related procedures on hard and soft tissues found in the oral and maxillofacial regions to treat diseases, injuries, or defects. Also, they may diagnose problems related to the oral and maxillofacial regions and perform surgeries for improved function or appearance.

The national estimate for oral and maxillofacial surgeons in terms of annual mean wages is $237,570 or $114.21 per hour. Minnesota offers the highest annual mean wage at $278,280 per year or $134 per hour. The five states with the highest salaries for oral and maxillofacial surgeons are as follows.

• Minnesota: $278,280/year or $134/hour
• Ohio: $270,090/year or $130/hour
• South Dakota: $267,480 or $129/hour
• Maryland: $260,690/year or $125/hour
• Pennsylvania: $241,060/year or $116/hour

Meanwhile, South Carolina has the lowest annual mean wage for oral and maxillofacial surgeons at $80,920. The mean hourly wage is $39. Here are other states with relatively lower annual mean wages for this specialization. 

• New York: $227,640/year or $109/hour
• California: $204,920/year or $99/hour
• Texas: $184,300/year or $89/hour 
• South Carolina: $80,920/year or $39/hour 

Orthodontists

Orthodontists examine, diagnose, and treat dental malocclusions and oral cavity anomalies. They design and fabricate appliances that would help realign teeth and jaws, thus producing and maintaining normal function while also improving appearance.

The national annual mean wage estimate for orthodontists is $230,830 or $110.98 per hour. Oklahoma has the highest annual mean wage for orthodontists at $286,050. That is about a $138 hourly rate. Listed below are the states that have the highest mean wages for orthodontists. 

• Oklahoma: $286,050/year or $138/hour
• Virginia: $279,710/year or $134/hour
• Washington: $277,050/year or $133/hour
• North Carolina: $271,270/year or $130/hour
• Minnesota: $268,480/year or $129/hour

As for the lowest annual mean wage for orthodontists, Illinois gives about $180,820 per year or $87 per hour. Here are the states with the lowest mean salaries for orthodontists. 

• Utah: $210,190/year or $101/hour
• Michigan: $208,540/year or $100/hour
• New York: $199,930/year or $96/hour
• California: $197,710/year or $95/hour
• Illinois: $180,820/year or $87/hour

Prosthodontists

Prosthodontists diagnose, treat, and rehabilitate patients with clinical conditions associated with teeth, oral and maxillofacial tissues, or the jaw. They also design and fit prostheses to maintain oral function. They also improve health and appearance for patients in doing so.

The national estimate of annual mean wages for prosthodontists is $214,870 or $103.30 per hour. 

There is limited data available for this specialization as per the BLS (2020e). The two states in the record—Virginia and Wisconsin—offer $ 190,790 and $249,920 annual mean wages, respectively. The hourly rates are $91.73 and $120.15, respectively. 

All Other Specialists

All other specialists are those not listed in the sections above. 

Connecticut has the highest annual mean wage for dentists of all other specializations not mentioned previously. The salary reaches about $275,350 per year or $132 per hour. That is much higher than the national estimates of $194,930 mean wage per year and $93.72 per hour.

The five states with relatively higher annual mean wages are the following. 

• Connecticut: $275,350/year or $132/hour
• Indiana: $272,640/year or $131/hour
• Missouri: $270,760/year or $130/hour
• Louisiana: $254,090/year or $122/hour
• Nebraska: $243,430/year or $117/hour

On the other hand, Mississippi has the lowest recorded annual mean wage for dentists. It amounts to $130,850 per annum or $63 per hour. Here are the other states with relatively lower salaries for dentists. 

• Illinois: $169,500/year or $81/hour
• Pennsylvania: $152,720/year or $73/hour
• Nevada: $146,280/year or $70/hour
• Maryland: $134,170/year or $65/hour
• Mississippi: $130,850/year or $63/hour 

States with the Highest and Lowest Dentist Employment 

As of 2020, the recoded number of jobs is 139,200. However, as mentioned earlier, dentists’ job outlook is quite positive, with an expected 8% increase in employment from 2020 to 2030, according to BLS (2021). 

Specifically, the estimated employment as of 2020, excluding self-employed, is 95,920 for general dentists, 4,120 for oral and maxillofacial surgeons, 5,040 for orthodontists, 530 for prosthodontists 5,610 for all other specialists. (BLS, 2021) 

The estimated openings for dentists each year, on average, over the decade is 5,000. Such openings, according to BLS, could be the result of the need to replace workers who choose to change occupations or because of exit from the labor force, as in through retirement. 

Here are the employment estimates per specialization as of May 2020 as reported by BLS. 

General Dentists

California has the highest estimated employment for general dentists on record in 2020, with approximately 12,040. Other states with high employment for general dentists are as follows. 

• California: 12,040 
• Texas: 8,480 
• Florida: 7,050 
• New York: 6,270 
• Illinois: 3,660

The lowest estimate is in North Dakota, with 180. The following are the states also with relatively lower employment for general dentists.

• Rhode Island: 280 
• Delaware: 280  
• South Dakota: 270 
• Alaska: 220 
• North Dakota: 180

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons

Like general dentists, California also has the highest employment estimate for oral and maxillofacial surgeons at 560. Other states with relatively higher estimates are as follows: 

• California: 560
• Florida: 330
• New York: 300
• Pennsylvania: 250
• Texas: 210

Meanwhile, Indiana has the lowest recorded employment estimate for oral and maxillofacial surgeons at 70. The other states are the following. 

• South Carolina: 150
• Tennessee: 130
• Massachusetts: 110
• Virginia: 100
• Indiana: 70

Orthodontists

For orthodontists, Maryland has the highest record of estimated employment for 2020 at 560. The other states that follow also have higher employment. 

• Maryland: 560
• Illinois: 350
• Texas: 300
• New York: 280
• Massachusetts: 270

The lowest recorded estimated employment for orthodontists is in Iowa at 50. Here are other states with relatively lower employment. 

• Nebraska: 70
• Michigan: 60
• South Carolina: 60
• Wisconsin: 60
• Iowa: 50

All Other Specialists

Nevada has the highest employment for all other dental specialists, with a record of 710. Listed here are states with the highest employment.

• Nevada: 710
• Texas: 570 
• California: 440 
• New York: 260 
• Florida: 230

Meanwhile, the state with the lowest employment of dentists with specializations other than those listed in the previous section is Mississippi with 40. Here are the rest of the states with relatively lower employment.

• South Carolina: 50 
• Oregon: 50 
• West Virginia: 40 
• Kentucky: 40 
• Mississippi: 40

Another Prospect for Dentists

Samaranayake and Fakhruddin (2021) note that limiting physical contact with patients or presymptomatic people will be critical in a post-pandemic world. Remote dental treatment, guidance, and education via information technology instead of direct patient contact could be an important component of patient care management, particularly during sporadic resurgences in regional pockets or areas where the pandemic may linger for months.

In their study titled, “Pandemics Past, Present, and Future," Samaranayake and Fakhruddin (2021) suggest that Teledentistry “could be an essential arm of the patient care management protocol, particularly during the sporadic resurgence of the infection in regional pockets or in areas where the pandemic may linger for months." 

Teledentistry is “the remote facilitating of dental treatment, guidance, and education via the use of information technology instead of direct face-to-face contact with patients," as defined by Samaranayake and Fakhruddin in their study published in The Journal of the American Dental Association. 

It includes teleconsultation, telediagnosis, teletriage, and telemonitoring. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, teledentistry could be used remotely to consult with patients with acute COVID-19 infections and those in quarantine. It could also be used to provide post-exposure advice and assessment. (Samaranayake & Fakhruddin, 2021)

Teledentistry could also be used to monitor preexisting oral diseases, such as cancer rehabilitation therapy and suspected oral lesions. It is critical because routine oral health care for patients may have been neglected during the pandemic due to lack of access to care facilities or travel restrictions. (Samaranayake & Fakhruddin, 2021)

Dentists and patients may still be reluctant to accept teledentistry as a care management tool because it is new. Nevertheless, the growing use of cloud-based data services, artificial intelligence, and big data resolution through bioinformatics will undoubtedly make it a robust diagnostic and patient care management tool in the not too distant future. (Samaranayake & Fakhruddin, 2021)

Cost of Dental School

Attending dental school can be quite expensive. In the ADA’s survey of dental education, the average dental school tuition and fees for first-year resident students is $55,521 and $71,916 for non-resident. Meanwhile, the average first-year resident tuition and fees for private schools are $76,447 and $41,033 for public schools. 

However, there are affordable institutions. According to the same survey, the most affordable dental school in 2020-21 for first-year students is the University of Illinois, Chicago, with a $17,818 cost for residents and $32,068 for non-resident. Following this is Texas A&M University at $18,288 for residents and $29,088 non-residents.  

On a bigger picture, the ADA reports that the average dental school costs for all four years in 2020-211 is $325,891 for non-residents and $259,990 for residents or $342,927 for private schools and $202,571 for public institutions.

The cost of education may be high but the notable but the typically impressive dental school salary received by professionals can help recoup what was spent in college. 

Requirements to be a Dentist 

Dentists need a DDS or DMD degree earned from attending a dental program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). Generally, applicants to the program must have at least a bachelor’s degree, preferably in science. They must have completed certain science courses, including but not limited to biology or chemistry. Dental school applicants should take and pass the Dental Admission Test (DAT).

Note that dentists must be licensed in the state where they choose to work. The licensure requirements would vary per state. Most states demand a DDS or DMD from an authorized dental school and pass the National Board Dental Examinations and a state or regional clinical test.

Before choosing an institution, it is best to check the accreditation to make sure the program is aligned to what is needed for taking and passing the written and clinical exams.

A dentist must also be licensed to practice in a particular dental specialty. After dental school, licensure requires a residency and, in some cases, a state exam.

What are the dental specialties?

Most dentists are general practitioners. They handle a variety of dental needs. However, some dentists practice in a specialty area. BLS (2021) describes the following as specialty areas related to dentistry. 

• Dental anesthesiologists administer anesthetics to reduce or eliminate pain during a dental procedure. They monitor sedated patients, keeping them safe and helping them manage pain after their procedure.
• Dental public health specialists work in or reach out to communities to promote good dental health, not to mention the prevention of dental diseases.
• Endodontists specialize in performing root canal therapy, removing nerves and blood supply from infected or injured teeth.
• Oral and maxillofacial radiologists diagnose diseases in the head and neck using imaging technologies.
• Oral and maxillofacial surgeons operate on the mouth, jaws, teeth, gums, neck, and head. They perform surgical repair of a cleft lip and palate or remove impacted teeth.
• Oral pathologists diagnose conditions in the mouth, including bumps or ulcers. They also diagnose oral diseases like cancer.
• Orthodontists specialize in straightening the teeth by applying pressure on them using braces or other appliances.
• Pediatric dentists specialize in handling the dental needs of children and special-needs patients.
• Periodontists are those who treat the gums and bones that support the teeth.

Take note that dentists may also do research or teach. 

Before practicing any dental specialty, dentists must undergo extra training. A two to four-year residency in a program accredited by CODA leads to a postdoctoral certificate or master’s degree. Oral and maxillofacial surgery schools typically last four to six years and include a joint M.D. degree.

General dentists do not require post-graduate training.

A postdoctoral program in general dentistry may be required for dentists who desire to teach or do research full-time.

Preparing for a Career in Dentistry

Embarking on a dental career is an ambitious and rewarding journey. To set yourself up for success, it's important to understand the necessary steps and best practices to prepare for dental school and a dental career. Here's how to get started:

• Complete Relevant Pre-Dental Courses: During your undergraduate studies, focus on taking courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and other sciences. These are prerequisites for dental school and will build the foundation of knowledge needed for advanced studies. If you're looking for an accessible entry point into the healthcare field, starting with the easiest associate degree to get can help you gain foundational knowledge and prepare for more specialized dental courses later on. This approach can save you time and effort as you progress toward dental school.
• Gain Hands-On Experience: Work or volunteer in a dental office to gain practical exposure to the field. This experience will help you understand the daily responsibilities of a dentist, familiarize you with dental procedures, and improve your understanding of patient care. It's an essential step for enhancing your application.
• Prepare for the Dental Admission Test (DAT): The DAT is an important part of the dental school application process. It tests your academic ability, scientific knowledge, and perceptual ability. Devote time to prepare thoroughly by using study guides, practice tests, and online resources. Doing well on the DAT can greatly improve your chances of acceptance.
• Research Dental Schools: Consider the programs that align with your career goals, whether you're interested in general dentistry or a specialty like orthodontics or periodontics. Look at accreditation, curriculum, clinical training opportunities, and location.
• Apply for Financial Aid: Dental school can be expensive, so exploring financial aid options early is crucial. Scholarships, grants, and student loans can ease the financial burden. Research and apply to financial aid opportunities that align with your academic performance and financial situation.
• Develop Soft Skills: Dentistry is not just about technical skills; it's also about communication, teamwork, and empathy. Work on building your soft skills through volunteer work or leadership roles in college organizations. These will be invaluable when working with patients and colleagues.

How Does Continuing Education Impact Dental Career Success?

Ongoing professional development is essential for dental practitioners seeking to remain competitive and deliver high-quality patient care. Staying abreast of emerging techniques, innovative technologies, and evolving regulatory standards enables dentists to refine their clinical skills and broaden their areas of expertise. Engaging in targeted continuing education—ranging from specialized certifications and workshops to flexible online studies—offers practitioners the opportunity to enhance their clinical practice while adapting to the dynamic healthcare landscape. Moreover, exploring options such as accelerated degree programs for working adults supports a balanced approach to lifelong learning, ensuring that dentists can sustainably advance their careers without compromising their professional or personal commitments.

What Strategies Can Dentists Use to Enhance Practice Administration?

Effective practice administration is essential for optimizing operational efficiency and improving financial outcomes. Dentists can benefit from integrating advanced billing systems, scheduling software, and revenue cycle management tools to streamline administrative tasks. Embracing digital resources—including targeted online courses from accredited medical billing and coding schools online—can sharpen proficiency in coding, billing, and financial reporting, thereby minimizing administrative errors while enhancing overall productivity.

What Other Career Opportunities Complement a Dental Career?

Dentistry is evolving beyond traditional clinical practice. Many dental professionals are finding opportunities in interdisciplinary fields such as research, healthcare management, and academic roles. Diversifying one’s career can open paths into innovative sectors, including biotech and public health initiatives, where clinical expertise is highly valued. Additionally, for those with a strong foundation in biological sciences, exploring the highest paying jobs with a biology degree can offer avenues to complement or transition from conventional dental roles.

How Can Dentists Leverage Public Health to Enhance Patient Outcomes?

Dentists can integrate public health strategies into clinical practice to identify community health trends and implement effective preventive measures. By adopting evidence-based approaches and developing targeted patient education programs, dental practices can better address local needs and improve overall care quality. Supplementing clinical training with public health studies not only broadens a dentist’s skill set but also strengthens the capacity to manage emerging health challenges. For instance, pursuing credentials through most affordable public health degrees online can provide valuable insights and tools to develop sustainable, community-focused interventions both in practice management and patient care.

How Can Dentists Master Business and Practice Management?

Effective business and practice management is critical for sustaining a successful dental career. Dentists can enhance their leadership and operational skills by leveraging targeted education in health administration, which covers essential aspects such as finance, digital marketing, and regulatory compliance. Investing in structured courses like the most affordable healthcare administration degree online can provide practical insights and strategies to streamline practice operations, improve patient management, and ultimately strengthen the overall competitiveness of their dental practice.

Can interdisciplinary education enhance a dental career?

Dentists can further elevate patient care and clinical decision-making by integrating knowledge from complementary healthcare fields. Cross-disciplinary education—such as gaining insights into pharmacotherapy and medication management—empowers dental professionals to optimize treatment planning, especially in complex cases. Pursuing courses that blend clinical dentistry with related healthcare domains broadens the skill set and fosters interprofessional collaboration. For example, enrolling in an online PharmD program can provide critical expertise that complements dental practice and enhances overall patient outcomes.

Challenges Dentists Face in Maintaining Work-Life Balance

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance can be challenging for dentists due to the demanding nature of their profession. Here are some of the common challenges:

• Long work hours. Dentists often work extended hours, especially those who manage private practices, which requires additional time for administrative tasks beyond patient care.
• Physical and mental fatigue. The repetitive nature of dental procedures, combined with maintaining a high level of concentration, can lead to physical strain and burnout, affecting both physical and mental well-being.
• Patient care pressures. Dentists are responsible for patient outcomes, which adds stress in ensuring precision and managing patient anxieties, contributing to emotional fatigue.
• Managing a business. For those running their own clinics, balancing patient care with business management tasks such as staffing, billing, and marketing can create additional challenges in maintaining a personal life.

Focusing on time management, seeking support from staff, and setting boundaries are crucial for dentists aiming to achieve a better work-life balance.

Exploring Accelerated Education Options for Aspiring Dentists

Pursuing a career in dentistry often involves a significant time and financial investment. However, accelerated education pathways can help aspiring dentists enter the field more quickly without compromising on the quality of their education. These programs are particularly beneficial for students who are eager to start their careers while managing education costs effectively.

• Combined Bachelor’s and DDS/DMD Programs: Some universities offer combined programs that allow students to earn both a bachelor's degree and a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree in a reduced timeframe, typically six to seven years instead of the traditional eight. These programs streamline the educational journey by integrating undergraduate and professional coursework.
• One-Year Master’s Programs: For students who wish to enhance their qualifications before applying to dental school, one year degree programs can provide valuable experience. A one-year master’s degree in biomedical sciences or related fields can strengthen an application and improve readiness for dental school.
• Accelerated Pre-Dental Tracks: Many universities now offer accelerated pre-dental tracks, enabling students to complete their prerequisite courses faster. These programs are designed to help students apply to dental schools earlier while ensuring they meet all necessary academic requirements.
• Dual-Degree Programs: Dual-degree programs, such as DDS/MBA or DDS/MPH, can be ideal for students looking to combine dental expertise with business or public health knowledge. While these programs may take slightly longer, they often offer overlapping coursework that reduces the overall time commitment compared to pursuing these degrees separately.
• Advanced Placement (AP) and CLEP Exams: Students can save time and money by earning college credits through AP exams or the College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) during high school. This approach allows for a lighter course load during college or earlier graduation.
• Online Prerequisite Courses: Many institutions now offer online courses for pre-dental prerequisites. These flexible options can help students complete required coursework more efficiently, especially for non-traditional students balancing education with other responsibilities.

By exploring these options, aspiring dentists can find a pathway that aligns with their personal, professional, and financial goals, making their journey to a rewarding dental career more efficient and cost-effective.

Dentists' Salary vs Other Healthcare Professionals

Dentists are among the highest-earning professionals in the healthcare industry, but how do their earnings compare to other prominent roles, such as physicians or advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs)? Understanding these comparisons can provide valuable context for those exploring careers in healthcare.

Comparative Salaries in Healthcare

• Dentists: Dentists specializing in areas such as prosthodontics or oral and maxillofacial surgery often earn a median salary exceeding $208,000 annually. General dentists have slightly lower but still competitive earnings, with a median salary of $164,010 as of 2020.
• Physicians and Surgeons: Physicians generally out-earn dentists, with median annual wages ranging from $208,000 to well above for specialists like anesthesiologists or orthopedic surgeons. However, the educational path for physicians is longer, with a minimum of 11-15 years of education and training compared to 8-10 years for dentists.
• Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Professionals: Advanced practice registered nurses, particularly those with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), earn significant salaries. The average DNP salary varies by state and specialization, often exceeding $125,000 annually. For a detailed breakdown, explore how much do DNP make across different regions.
• Pharmacists: Pharmacists earn a median annual wage of approximately $128,710. Although this salary is competitive, it falls below that of most dental specialties.
• Physical Therapists and Occupational Therapists: These roles typically earn between $89,000 and $100,000 annually. While their salaries are lower than those of dentists, these careers require less financial investment in education.

Key Considerations

When choosing a healthcare career, it's essential to weigh earning potential against factors like years of education, work-life balance, and job demand. While physicians may out-earn dentists, the shorter educational path and high earning potential make dentistry an appealing option. Similarly, careers like DNP professionals provide an excellent balance of salary, demand, and educational investment.

By examining these comparisons, individuals can make informed decisions about which healthcare career aligns with their personal and professional goals.

What are the best educational pathways for aspiring dentists?

Aspiring dentists can explore various educational pathways to achieve their career goals. For those interested in flexible learning options, online colleges with open enrollment can provide a convenient and accessible way to pursue higher education. Additionally, accelerated education programs, combined degree options, and part-time study opportunities can also be considered. By weighing the pros and cons of each pathway, individuals can make informed decisions about their educational journey and set themselves up for success in the dental profession.

Is dental school worth it?

Considering the cost of attending dental school, one might say that it is a very expensive degree to earn. However, like when judging the worth of other degrees, students must look into several factors like the average dentist entry level salary and work benefits once they start practicing. The projected rise in employment alongside projected increases in wages are also vital factors.

While college in the U.S. tends to be expensive, take note that not all institutions, even dental schools, will be expensive. There will be more affordable ones and those that offer financial aids. On the same note, choosing where to practice dentistry is also vital since dentists’ wages vary according to state.

Ultimately, understanding all vital factors, prospective dentists could determine how long their return on educational investment would take. Then, they can say whether attending dental school and becoming a dentist is worth it. 

Key Insights

• Positive Job Outlook: The demand for dentists is expected to grow by 8% from 2020 to 2030, adding approximately 11,110 new jobs. This growth rate is faster than the average for all occupations, indicating strong future employment opportunities.
• High Starting Salaries: Entry-level dentists can expect to earn around $123,332 annually, with general dentists earning slightly more at $126,962. Salaries increase significantly with experience, reaching averages of $166,924 for dentists with over two decades of practice.
• Top Specializations: Dentists in specialties such as prosthodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgery, and orthodontics earn some of the highest median wages, with figures reaching up to $208,000 annually.
• Geographic Variability: Dentist salaries vary widely by state, with Rhode Island offering the highest average salary for general dentists at $258,920 per year, while West Virginia offers the lowest at $127,950 per year.
• High Costs of Education: Dental school is expensive, with average first-year tuition and fees ranging from $41,033 for public schools to $76,447 for private institutions. However, the high earning potential of dentists can help offset these costs over time.
• Licensing Requirements: To practice dentistry, individuals must earn a DDS or DMD degree from an accredited dental program and pass the National Board Dental Examinations and state or regional clinical exams. Additional residency and certification are required for dental specialties.
• Emerging Trends: Teledentistry is gaining traction as a viable component of dental care management, especially important during pandemics and for remote patient care, suggesting a growing intersection of technology and dental practices.

FAQ

1. What is the average starting salary for a dentist? The average starting salary for a dentist in the United States is approximately $123,332 annually, including tips, bonuses, and overtime pay.
2. What factors influence a dentist's salary? A dentist's salary can be influenced by their level of experience, specialization, geographic location, and whether they operate their own practice or work in a partnership or as an associate.
3. Which dental specialties have the highest salaries? Prosthodontists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, and orthodontists tend to have the highest median annual wages, each earning around $208,000 or more.
4. How much does dental school cost? The average cost for a four-year dental school education is $325,891 for non-residents and $259,990 for residents. First-year tuition and fees vary widely, with public schools averaging $41,033 and private schools averaging $76,447.
5. What are the licensing requirements to become a dentist? Dentists must earn a DDS or DMD degree from an accredited dental program, pass the National Board Dental Examinations, and pass state or regional clinical exams. Specializations require additional residency training and state exams.
6. Which states offer the highest salaries for dentists? States like Rhode Island, Vermont, and Alaska offer some of the highest average salaries for general dentists, with Rhode Island leading at $258,920 per year.
7. What are the employment prospects for dentists in the coming decade? Employment for dentists is projected to grow by 8% from 2020 to 2030, adding about 11,110 new jobs. This growth is driven by increased demand for dental services and advancements in dental technology.
8. What is Teledentistry and how is it changing the field? Teledentistry involves the remote delivery of dental care, guidance, and education via information technology. It is becoming increasingly important for managing patient care, particularly during pandemics and for patients in remote areas.
9. Is dental school worth the investment? Despite the high costs of dental school, the substantial earning potential and positive job outlook for dentists can make the investment worthwhile. Prospective students should consider factors like starting salaries, job growth, and the availability of financial aid when making their decision.
10. What are some related professions to dentistry and their average salaries? Related professions include dental hygienists ($63,596), dental assistants ($36,503), and dental and ophthalmic laboratory technicians ($58,307). These roles support dentists and contribute to the overall dental care team.