Dentists Salary in the United States: A 2025 Overview
Percentile Wage Estimates for Dentists
Texas - Salary Report January 2025
Florida - Salary Report January 2025
New York - Salary Report January 2025
Dentists Salary in the United States
Dentists remain among the highest-paid professionals in the U.S. healthcare system. Their responsibilities—ranging from preventive care and diagnostics to complex procedures and cosmetic enhancements—make them indispensable to public health. With growing awareness of oral wellness, rising insurance coverage, and an aging population, dentist salaries across the United States are steadily increasing.
General Dentist Salary in the United States
General dentists provide the foundation of dental care in the U.S. healthcare system. From routine exams and cleanings to restorative and minor surgical procedures, their scope of practice is broad, and their role is critical to both early intervention and ongoing patient care.
General Dentists’ Current Salary Overview:
As of 2024, the average general dentist salary in the U.S. stands at $255,000 annually, or roughly $21,250 per month and $123 per hour. However, salaries typically range between $171,000 and $338,000, depending on region, employer type, and years of experience.
General Dentist Salary in Other US States
| States | Average Monthly Salary | Average Annual Salary | Hourly Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $23,333 | $280,000 | $146/hour |
| New York | $23,917 | $287,000 | $149/hour |
| Florida | $29,583 | $355,000 | $185/hour |
| California | $21,250 | $255,000 | $133/hour |
Employment Landscape:
Currently, there are over 8,850 job opportunities for general dentists across the United States. These positions are available in:
- ●Independent practices
- ●DSOs (Dental Service Organizations)
- ●Public health and federally qualified health centers
- ●Academic and hospital-based roles
The consistently high salary average reflects the growing patient load, the increasing demand for preventive care, and enhanced access through insurance expansions. General dentists are also well-positioned to expand into specialties, cosmetic procedures, or practice ownership, all of which further elevate their earning potential.
Associate Dentist Salary in the United States
Associate dentists work under the guidance of lead dentists or clinic owners and manage a broad range of clinical duties, including diagnostics, treatment planning, restorative procedures, and preventive care. Associate dentists serve as the backbone of many private and group practices, and their salaries reflect the growing importance of their role.
Associate Dentists’ Current Salary Overview:
The average associate dentist salary in the United States ranges between $174,000 and $345,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and type of employer. This translates to a monthly salary of approximately $21,667 and an hourly wage of $125.
Associate Dentist Salary in Other US States
| States | Average Monthly Salary | Average Annual Salary | Hourly Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $22,917 | $275,000 | $144/hour |
| New York | $25,167 | $302,000 | $157/hour |
| Florida | $22,833 | $274,000 | $143/hour |
| California | $23,250 | $279,000 | $134/hour |
Work Settings and Job Market:
Associate dentists are employed in a variety of environments, including:
- ●Private practices – Offering mentorship and high patient volume
- ●Corporate dental groups – Providing better infrastructure and performance-based pay
- ●Community clinics – Fulfilling roles in underserved areas, often with state-backed incentives
- As demand for dental services increases, particularly in suburban and rural communities, the number of open associate dentist positions is rising significantly across the country. Many associate roles now include added benefits such as bonus structures, profit-sharing, and relocation packages, making the position both financially attractive and professionally fulfilling.
National Trends and Key Drivers in Dentist Salary in USA
- ●Rising Patient Demand
- Driven by aging populations, increased public awareness, and insurance expansion.
- ●Technological Advancements
- Dentists using AI tools, intraoral scanners, and same-day restoration systems earn more due to service diversification and efficiency.
- ●Growth of DSOs and Multi-Specialty Practices
- Collaboration in multi-provider settings leads to shared revenue streams and higher income potential.
- ●Workforce Gaps in Rural and Retirement Areas
- Shortages of practicing dentists in many U.S. counties are leading to lucrative offers for new and experienced professionals alike.
- ●Flexible Career Models
- Remote consults, locum tenens, and part-time setups give dentists control over income while maintaining work-life balance.
Dentistry remains one of the most stable and lucrative careers in the U.S. healthcare system. Whether you’re a recent graduate, a practicing associate, or an experienced general dentist, the outlook for earnings and job growth in 2024 and beyond is highly favorable. As the dental industry continues to evolve with technology, interdisciplinary care, and broader public access, now is an excellent time to build a rewarding and resilient dental career in the United States.
Build a High-Performing Dental Team with Hire Smiles
If you’re looking to hire qualified, experienced, and patient-focused dentists across the United States, Hire Smiles is your trusted dental recruitment partner. As a leading North American dental recruiting agency, we specialize in matching dental practices and DSOs with top-tier general dentists, associate dentists, and specialists. Our tailored recruitment approach ensures that you find professionals who align with your clinical goals, culture, and care standards. Let us help you build a high-performing team that enhances both patient outcomes and practice growth.
📞 Contact us today at +1 (888) 533-4989 or email info@hiresmiles.com to get started with our expert dental recruitment services.