Average Associate Dentist Salary in the United States
Percentile Wage Estimates for Associate Dentists
Associate Dentist Salary in the United States
Associate dentists work under the guidance of senior or lead dentists and are responsible for managing a wide variety of clinical responsibilities. The average associate dentist salary in the United States represents the strong and growing earning potential within the dental profession. Especially for the entry-level associate dentist salary in the United States is also increasing as they grow in their practice careers or work within group settings.
With an annual salary range between $174,000 and $345,000, associate dentists in the U.S. enjoy one of the highest-paying dental healthcare roles. The average associate dentist salary in the United States per month is $21,667, and an estimated hourly wage of $125.
Associate Dentist's Salary in the US
| States | Average Monthly Salary | Average Annual Salary | Hourly Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $23,250 | $279,000 | $134/hour |
| New York | $25,167 | $302,000 | $145/hour |
| Florida | $22,833 | $274,000 | $132/hour |
| Texas | $22,917 | $275,000 | $144/hour |
The salary range can change depending on the region, experience level, and practice setting. Associate dentists can work in private practices, corporate dental chains and community clinics all offer different associate dentist incomes in the United States. Some roles may include performance-based incentives or profit-sharing models.
As patient demand continues to grow across the country, particularly in rural and expanding urban communities. As per the latest information, the number of open positions for associate dentists is increasing steadily. This makes the associate dentist role both financially rewarding and professionally fulfilling.
Associate Dentist Salary Trends in the United States
Recent data that takes into account the country-level numbers indicates that associate dentists earn an average annual salary ranging from $174,000 to $345,000, with the median as $260,000. These figures make associate dentistry one of the most attractive early-career options in the dental profession.
With over 11,000 job openings across the country, the demand for associate dentists remains strong and will keep rising in urban, suburban, and rural areas alike.
The associate dentist’s income in the United States per month is about $21,666, and the hourly pay stands at approximately $125.
Associate Dentist’s Roles and Responsibilities
Associate dentists play a critical role in the delivery of patient-centered dental care in the United States. Working under the leadership of a practice owner or within a group practice, they contribute to clinical efficiency and help maintain high standards of care across a range of dental services.
- ●Examining Patients and Developing Treatment Plans
- Associate dentists perform comprehensive oral exams, evaluate diagnostic images, and create individualized treatment plans to address both preventive and restorative dental needs.
- ●Performing Restorative and Preventive Procedures
- They carry out a wide variety of procedures, including cavity fillings, crown and bridge placement, tooth extractions, and root canal treatments. Preventive care services such as fluoride applications and sealants are also part of their routine responsibilities.
- ●Educating Patients on Oral Health
- An essential part of their role is to guide patients in proper oral hygiene practices, dietary choices, and the importance of routine dental visits to support long-term oral wellness.
- ●Collaborating with Dental Hygienists and Assistants
- Associate dentists work closely with other members of the dental team to ensure smooth patient flow, clinical support, and efficient chairside assistance.
- ●Maintaining Records and Ensuring Compliance
- They are responsible for documenting diagnoses, treatment outcomes, and follow-up care while adhering to HIPAA guidelines and clinical safety standards.
- ●Gaining Exposure to Specialized Services
- Depending on the practice, associate dentists may participate in cosmetic procedures (such as veneers or teeth whitening), orthodontic screenings, and pediatric dental care. These experiences help broaden their skillset and prepare them for possible specialization or future practice ownership.
Whether in a private practice or a corporate setting, associate dentists are integral to delivering quality dental care and improving access for patients across communities. Their position offers valuable mentorship and real-world experience, making it a common and essential career step for newly licensed dentists and professionals seeking long-term growth.
Associate Dentist – Scope of Practice and Work Settings
Associate dentists work across a wide variety of settings in the U.S., including private practices, dental service organizations (DSOs), corporate chains, public health clinics, and academic institutions. They operate under the license of the practice owner but have significant clinical autonomy in delivering patient care.
While the scope of practice is very much similar to that of a general dentist, associate dentists usually do not own the practice or carry administrative responsibilities. Instead, they focus on clinical excellence, patient satisfaction, and continuous learning.
This position is ideal for recent dental school graduates or professionals looking to gain diverse experience before venturing into solo practice or pursuing specialties.
Why Associate Dentist Salaries Are on the Rise
Several key factors contribute to the growing demand and associate dentists’ income in the United States:
- ●Expanding Dental Networks
- Corporate dental chains and DSOs are rapidly growing, offering stable, well-paying associate positions.
- ●Shortage of Practicing Dentists
- As more senior dentists retire, associate roles are in high demand to maintain service continuity.
- ●Flexible Work Models
- Many practices offer full-time, part-time, and contract roles with incentives, increasing overall compensation.
- ●High Patient Volume
- Associate dentists in busy practices benefit from high patient flow and procedure-based bonuses.
- ●Skill Advancement
- Ongoing exposure to various procedures enhances skills, making associate dentists more valuable to employers.
These trends reflect a dynamic job market that supports growth, stability, and professional development for associate dentists nationwide.
Hire Skilled Associate Dentists with Confidence
Looking to hire qualified and reliable associate dentists in the United States? Hire Smiles is your go-to dental recruitment partner across the country. We specialize in connecting practices with passionate, licensed associate dentists who bring clinical skill, patient empathy, and teamwork to your dental office.
Whether you’re building a new team or expanding an existing one, Hire Smiles helps you attract top associate talent tailored to your operational needs. Our deep network and expert recruitment process ensure faster placements and lasting results.
Let’s elevate your dental care experience—one associate at a time. You can contact us at +1(888) 533-4989 or email us at info@hiresmiles.com.