Dentists, General salary 2025: $170,950 median, job growth 4.1%
General dentists in the U.S. earn a median annual salary of $170,950, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The top 10% take home over $319,630, while the bottom 10% make around $86,250. With 124,390 jobs nationwide and faster-than-average growth, dentistry remains a lucrative and stable career path.
How much Dentists, General earn
The mean hourly wage for general dentists is about $82, and the mean annual salary is $191,350. But pay varies dramatically by experience and location. The typical range from the 10th to 90th percentile spans $86,250 to $319,630, meaning career earnings can triple over a lifetime.
Self-employed dentists—those who own their practice—often earn more than associates, but face overhead and business risk. Those in group practices or corporate dentistry (DSOs) have more stable hours but may cap their upside.
Pay by state
Alaska tops the list at a mean $230,990, followed by North Dakota at $220,660 and Minnesota at $219,200. Tennessee ($215,290) and Oregon ($211,690) round out the top five. At the low end, Utah ($133,320), Idaho ($124,190), and Wyoming ($123,830) pay well below the national average.
Regional demand and cost of living play a role, but so does state-dentist density. Rural states often need dentists more, pushing pay up—except in low-population states like Wyoming where patient volume may be limited.
How to become Dentists, General
Becoming a general dentist requires a bachelor’s degree (often in a science field), passing the Dental Admission Test (DAT), and completing a four-year dental school program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). Graduates earn either a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree.
After dental school, you must pass the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) and a clinical licensing exam through your state’s dental board. Many states also require a jurisprudence exam and CPR certification.
Optional residencies (e.g., general practice residency or advanced education in general dentistry) can improve clinical skills but aren’t required for general practice. Most new graduates work as associates or join a DSO before opening their own practice.
- Earn a bachelor’s degree (science major common).
- Pass the DAT and apply to CODA-accredited dental schools.
- Complete a 4-year DDS or DMD program.
- Pass NBDE and state clinical licensing exam.
- Consider residency for advanced training.
Job outlook
The BLS projects employment for general dentists to grow 4.1% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 3,900 openings per year, mostly due to retirements and population growth. Aging baby boomers are keeping more natural teeth and seeking preventive care, which supports demand.
However, competition for dental school slots remains high, and new dentists may face debt loads averaging over $300,000. Still, the long-term income potential and job security make it a strong career bet.
Frequently asked questions
What is the median salary for a general dentist in 2025?
The median annual salary is $170,950. The mean is $191,350, or about $82 per hour. Top earners exceed $319,630.
What state pays dentists the most?
Alaska pays the most at $230,990, followed by North Dakota ($220,660) and Minnesota ($219,200).
How long does it take to become a general dentist?
Typically 8 years: 4 years of undergraduate study, 4 years of dental school. Then you must pass licensing exams to practice.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Dentists, General data.