Dentists, General: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 113,490 dentists, generals, and they earn a median of $172,790/year. The range runs from starting around $84K. Vermont pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level dentists, generals start around $84K. The gap between that and the median ($173K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Vermont | $231K | 220 |
| Alaska | $231K | 260 |
| Delaware | $225K | 360 |
| Minnesota | $210K | 2,500 |
| Maine | $209K | 450 |
| Arizona | $207K | 2,930 |
| Wisconsin | $207K | 2,160 |
| North Dakota | $201K | 210 |
| Washington | $198K | 3,100 |
| Georgia | $196K | 3,260 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a dentists, general make?▼
The median dentists, general salary in the United States is $172,790 per year ($83/hour). Entry-level positions start around $83,860, while experienced professionals earn up to $0.
What education do you need to become a dentists, general?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for dentists, generals?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for dentists, generals.
What are the highest paying states for dentists, generals?▼
The highest paying states for dentists, generals are Vermont ($230,990), Alaska ($230,830), Delaware ($224,690), Minnesota ($209,820), Maine ($208,860). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.