General Dentist Salaries

Updated on Jun 05, 2025
Position
Salary

How much does a General Dentist make?

The average salary for a General Dentist is $244,550 per year in the US.

A General Dentist plays a vital role in the healthcare industry. They focus on diagnosing and treating issues related to the teeth and mouth. This profession offers a stable and rewarding career path. The average salary for a General Dentist stands at around $244,550 per year. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the type of practice.


The salary range for General Dentists can be quite broad. At the entry level, a General Dentist might earn around $123,500 annually. As experience grows, so does the salary. Those with more than 10 years in the field can earn upwards of $370,000 per year. Factors such as working in a metropolitan area or owning a private practice can also influence earnings. This profession not only offers a good income but also the chance to make a real difference in people's lives.

View General Dentist jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a General Dentist?

General Dentists can find high-paying job opportunities in several cities. Gainesville, FL, offers an average annual salary of $345,176. Other top cities include Boulder, CO, and Bend, OR, with average salaries around $318,000 and $300,000, respectively. These cities provide excellent prospects for those seeking competitive compensation in the dental field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for General Dentist jobs, highlighting Gainesville, FL with the highest at $345,176 and Columbia, MO with the lowest at $276,750.
  1. Gainesville, FL
    Average Salary: $345,176
    Gainesville offers a vibrant community with a growing demand for dental care. Dentists here benefit from a diverse patient base and a supportive professional network. Many local practices and the University of Florida Health provide excellent opportunities.
    Find General Dentist jobs in Gainesville, FL


  2. Boulder, CO
    Average Salary: $318,029
    In Boulder, the focus on health and wellness creates a strong need for dental services. Dentists enjoy a healthy work-life balance and the chance to work with advanced technology. The community's emphasis on outdoor activities also enriches personal life.
    Find General Dentist jobs in Boulder, CO


  3. Bend, OR
    Average Salary: $300,483
    Bend's scenic beauty and outdoor lifestyle attract many residents, boosting the need for dental care. Dentists here enjoy a friendly community and a variety of recreational activities. Local practices often emphasize patient comfort and satisfaction.
    Find General Dentist jobs in Bend, OR


  4. Salt Lake City, UT
    Average Salary: $297,458
    Salt Lake City provides a dynamic environment for dental professionals. The city's growing population and diverse community offer many opportunities. Dentists can work in various settings, from private practices to large dental groups.
    Find General Dentist jobs in Salt Lake City, UT


  5. Pittsburgh, PA
    Average Salary: $291,950
    Pittsburgh's rich industrial history and vibrant culture create a unique setting for dental practice. Dentists here benefit from a diverse patient population and a strong professional network. The city's emphasis on education and healthcare offers many opportunities for growth.
    Find General Dentist jobs in Pittsburgh, PA


  6. Knoxville, TN
    Average Salary: $289,788
    Knoxville's warm and welcoming community makes it an excellent place for dental practice. Dentists enjoy a balanced lifestyle with plenty of outdoor activities. The city's growing population provides a steady demand for dental services.
    Find General Dentist jobs in Knoxville, TN


  7. Indianapolis, IN
    Average Salary: $289,446
    Indianapolis offers a thriving market for dental services. Dentists here benefit from a diverse patient base and a strong professional network. The city's growing economy and vibrant culture provide a dynamic environment for practice.
    Find General Dentist jobs in Indianapolis, IN


  8. Springfield, IL
    Average Salary: $289,300
    Springfield provides a stable and welcoming environment for dental practice. Dentists enjoy a balanced lifestyle with plenty of community events. The city's commitment to healthcare offers many opportunities for professional development.
    Find General Dentist jobs in Springfield, IL


  9. Springfield, MO
    Average Salary: $278,183
    Springfield offers a friendly and supportive community for dental professionals. Dentists enjoy a balanced lifestyle with access to outdoor activities. The city's growing population provides a steady demand for dental services.
    Find General Dentist jobs in Springfield, MO


  10. Columbia, MO
    Average Salary: $276,750
    Columbia's vibrant university setting creates a unique demand for dental care. Dentists here benefit from a diverse patient base and a strong professional network. The city's emphasis on education and healthcare offers many opportunities for growth.
    Find General Dentist jobs in Columbia, MO

What are the best companies a General Dentist can work for?

General dentists can find top-paying jobs at Dental Associates Family & Specialty Care LLC, with an average salary of $572,222. Shared Practices Group offers a competitive salary of $458,333. PRO DENTAL provides an average salary of $387,500, making it a strong option for those seeking a good income. These companies value skilled dentists and offer attractive compensation packages.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for General Dentist jobs, highlighting Dental Associates Family & Specialty Care LLC with the highest at $572,222 and Risas Dental and Braces with the lowest at $360,610.
  1. Dental Associates Family & Specialty Care LLC
    Average Salary: $572,222
    Dental Associates Family & Specialty Care LLC offers a range of dental services. They have multiple locations across the country, providing opportunities for General Dentists to work in diverse settings.


  2. Shared Practices Group
    Average Salary: $458,333
    Shared Practices Group is a well-established dental practice with locations in several states. They focus on providing comprehensive dental care and offer competitive salaries for General Dentists.


  3. PRO DENTAL
    Average Salary: $387,500
    PRO DENTAL is known for its modern facilities and patient-centered approach. They have offices in various cities and are looking for skilled General Dentists to join their team.


  4. Affordable Dentures & Implants
    Average Salary: $384,317
    Affordable Dentures & Implants offers affordable dental care to a wide range of patients. They have numerous locations and provide a supportive environment for General Dentists.


  5. Super Kids Dental
    Average Salary: $383,333
    Super Kids Dental specializes in pediatric dentistry. They have multiple locations and are seeking General Dentists who enjoy working with children.


  6. American Dental Solutions
    Average Salary: $377,679
    American Dental Solutions offers a range of dental services and has locations in several states. They are looking for experienced General Dentists.


  7. DECA Dental Group
    Average Salary: $375,000
    DECA Dental Group provides comprehensive dental care and has offices in various cities. They offer competitive salaries and a supportive work environment.


  8. KHS
    Average Salary: $366,667
    KHS is a well-known dental practice with multiple locations. They focus on providing high-quality dental care and are looking for skilled General Dentists.


  9. Rodeo Dental & Orthodontics
    Average Salary: $362,541
    Rodeo Dental & Orthodontics offers a range of dental services and has offices in several states. They are seeking General Dentists who are passionate about patient care.


  10. Risas Dental and Braces
    Average Salary: $360,610
    Risas Dental and Braces specializes in dental care for children and adults. They have numerous locations and are looking for General Dentists who enjoy working with patients of all ages.

How to earn more as a General Dentist?

A General Dentist can explore various avenues to increase their earnings. By focusing on specific strategies, a dentist can enhance their professional income. One key approach is to expand the range of services offered. Providing additional treatments like cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, or oral surgery can attract more patients and increase revenue. Another factor is to improve patient retention. Building a loyal patient base through excellent service and follow-up care can lead to steady income from returning patients.

Location also plays a significant role in earning potential. Dentists in areas with higher demand and lower competition can command higher fees. Investing in advanced technology and continuing education can improve practice efficiency and patient outcomes. This can lead to higher patient satisfaction and willingness to pay premium prices. Lastly, effective marketing and networking can help attract new patients. Engaging in community events and online advertising can increase visibility and draw more clients to the practice.

Here are some factors to consider for increasing earnings:

  1. Expand service offerings
  2. Improve patient retention
  3. Choose a strategic location
  4. Invest in technology and education
  5. Enhance marketing efforts

Currently 3,396 General Dentist job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a General Dentist in the US?

Learn what a General Dentist does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a General Dentist today.
Position
Overview
General Dentist
3,396 Job Openings