Average General Dentist Salary & Benefits Breakdown by State US

The average general dentist salary is still among the most discussed issues in 2025 by healthcare professionals in the United States. Although a career in dentistry is still one of the best career paths for salary and job satisfaction, many factors can affect the general dentist’s income from one state to another, their experience, and the type of dental practice. 

This blog will review the average general dentist salary in the United States, along with an average monthly and hourly salary, and the best-paying states for general dentists. You will also learn about some of the common benefits and bonuses that are offered to dentists and the factors that help determine the average income of dentists in the United States.

What Is the Average General Dentist Salary in the US?

The general dentist salary in the US depends on factors like experience, location, and type of dental practice.

• As of 2025, the annual salary of general dentists in the United States is typically between $179,000 to $196,000 annually. This converts to approximately $14,900 to $16,300 on a monthly basis.
• The average dentist’s salary per hour in the United States is about $86 per hour, based on current reports from the BLS.
• Dentist specialists such as orthodontists and oral surgeons make much more and can earn above $225,000 yearly.
• The monthly entry-level dentist salary or starting salary of a dentist in the US is typically between $9,500 to $10,500, or approximately $120,000 to $130,000 each year.

What Are The General Dentist Salaries by State?

Dentist pay by state in the USA differs according to cost of living, demand for dentistry, and the number of dentists practicing there. States in which dentists are scarce or where the cost of living is higher tend to pay more than states with a lot of dentists and/or less competition. 

Below is the 2015 Top 10 list of best states for dentist salary, including the average annual, average monthly, and average hourly pay.

What Are The Entry-Level & Experienced Dentist Salary Trends?

The pay for a dentist in the USA advances with experience. New dentists receive a smaller salary compared to dentists with established clientele and a reputation for their work.

• An early-career dentist earns an average of $9,000-$10,500 a month or roughly $120,000-$130,000 a year.
• Early-career dentists (0-2 years) will usually be paid less while they develop their clinical skills and clientele.
  Mid-career dentists (3-7 years) can average $160,000-$190,000 depending on their state and the size of their clinic.
• Experienced dentists (10+ years) can typically earn between $200,000 and $250,000, with some dentists in private practices earning above this rate.

What Are The Benefits & Perks of Being a Dentist in the U.S?

Here are the benefits and perks of being a dentist in the U.S:

1. Strong Salary: Many dentists earn good salaries as general dentists, with earnings usually being significantly higher than the national average for health occupations.

2. Health Care: Many of the dental jobs will offer full health, dental, and vision.

3. Retirement Savings: Many practices will even offer 401 K s or pensions when the dentist is ready to retire.

4. Time Off: In addition to pay, dentists typically also receive paid time off, sick time, and paid holidays.

5. Continuing Education: Many of your employers will pay for courses, certifications, and seminars to help with your continuing education credits.

6. Flexible Schedule: Most dentists can choose from part-time, full-time, or private practice.

7. Bonuses & Incentives: Some dental offices will pay bonuses, signing bonuses, or incentive bonuses based on performance.

8. Career Expansion: Dentists can often specialize, start their own practice, or advance to management-level positions.

9. Job Security: Dentistry positions are always everywhere. Jobs will include security for the long term.

Where Do Dentists Make the Most Money in the World?

Understanding where dentists make the most money in the world can help aspiring professionals plan their careers.

• The United States is often one of the highest-paying countries for dentists. Their average salary ranges from approximately $179,000 – $196,000 per year. 
• Switzerland also pays dentists’ salaries that can exceed $200,000 per year due to the high cost of living and high demand for dentists.
• Norway and Denmark also have some of the highest salary ranges for dentists, at least $150,000 – $180,000 per year, as well as strong social benefits.
• Australia and Canada offer good salaries – from $140,000 to $180,000 per year – depending on experience, degree level, and location. 

What Are The  Factors Influencing Dentist Salaries?

Here are the primary factors affecting a dentist’s income:

• Experience: Dentists with more experience earn more than new graduates.
• Location: Salaries are geographic-based by city or region. Higher salaries are found in urban areas since the cost of living is higher, and there is more demand for services.
• Type of Clinic or Hospital: A private practice can make more money than a government or small practice.
• Specialty: Specialists, such as orthodontists or oral surgeons, typically earn more than general dentists.
• Education and Skills: More education and training will lead to higher pay. Continuing education in new dental skills will also lead to higher compensation.
• Body of Patients: A large hereditary patient base will also lead to more income.
• Times of Service: Dentists who work longer hours or work weekends will typically earn more.
• Reputation and Reviews: A good reputation and word-of-mouth will lead to more patients, thus resulting in more income.
• Economic Conditions: The economy, demand for services, and the number of dentist offices in the area where a dentist operates can affect what patients will pay.

Read More: Tips for Salary Negotiations for Dentists 

Final Thought: Over Average General Dentist Salary

Overall, the salary of general dentists in the USA is highly variable among states, based on factors like cost of living, demand, and experience. States that have a higher cost of living are likely to have higher salaries. Along with a good salary, dentists also receive things like health insurance, paid time off, retirement benefits, and bonuses, which help make dentistry a fulfilling and secure profession in every area of the country.

Looking to start or grow your dental career in the USA? Explore state-wise salary insights and benefits to find where your skills shine the most. Whether you’re a new graduate or an experienced professional searching for general dentist job openings, Contact Hire Smiles today for personalized guidance, job placements, and exciting career opportunities in top dental practices across the country.

FAQs About General Dentist Salary & Benefits Breakdown by State USA

Q1: What is the average income for an American dentist? 

An American general dentist makes between $150,000-$200,000 annually, and it depends on the state. 

Q2: What states pay dentists the most? 

Delaware, Alaska, North Dakota, and Rhode Island usually pay the highest salaries for dentists.

Q3: What states pay the least? 

Mississippi, Arkansas, and Alabama tend to have lower dentist salaries on average.

Q4: Is a dentist’s salary based on experience and education? 

Yes, both experience level and education increase a dentist’s salary.

Q5: What benefits do dentists usually get? 

Common benefits include health insurance, paid time off, retirement plans, and bonuses based on performance. 

Q6: Do dentists in private practice earn more than dentists in government positions? 

Yes, private practitioners earn more than a dentist practicing in the government; however, a private practitioner has more overhead. 

Q7: What is the relationship between the cost of living and dentists’ salaries? Generally, when the cost of living is higher in a state, dentists’ salaries will be higher to cover the cost of living. 

Q8: Is dentistry a good profession in the USA? 

Yes, dentistry is a profitable career that offers job stability and a reasonable work-life balance throughout most states.

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