As of April 01, 2026, the average hourly rate for a DDS in the United States is $94, which translates to an annual salary of about $195,500.
However, the hourly wage can vary significantly based on several factors. Here’s a detailed look at the typical pay range per hour:
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A DDS's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, education and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a DDS's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level DDS | $192,276 |
| Intermediate Level DDS | $192,873 |
| Senior Level DDS | $193,470 |
| Specialist Level DDS | $194,306 |
| Expert Level DDS | $197,672 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract DDS. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Leadership | 6.53% |
| Clinical Skills | 3% |
| HIPAA | 1.98% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Medical Prescriptions
|
$215,050 |
10%
|
|
Coaching
|
$209,185 |
7%
|
|
Insight
|
$209,185 |
7%
|
|
Pediatric
|
$205,275 |
5%
|
|
Leadership
|
$203,320 |
4%
|
|
Support Services
|
$201,365 |
3%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many DDS enter the field with a JD, MD, PhD or Equivalent degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for a DDS with a JD, MD, PhD or Equivalent is between $192,133 and $204,843).
DDS Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 1.7% |
| High School | 4.3% |
| Associates | 8.4% |
| Bachelors | 10.8% |
| Masters | 10.1% |
| Doctorate | 64.7% |
Understanding how a DDS's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on April 01, 2026Salaries for a DDS can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $112,260 in 2023 to around $111,827 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of DDS salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $112,260 |
| 2024 | $113,619 |
| 2025 | $111,827 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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The three-year, full-time postgraduate Master of Dental Surgery (MDS) is the highest degree in dentistry awarded in India. Holders of this degree often work as consultants in specialties such as Prosthodontics, Periodontics, and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. Salaries for MDS graduates typically range from a minimum of $175,800 to a maximum of $221,500, with a mid-salary of $196,700.
Dentists typically earn between $175,800 and $221,500 annually based on current salary data. While some experienced dentists may reach earnings close to $300K, this is not the standard range for most practitioners. The average salary falls around $196,700, reflecting the typical compensation for dentists in the field.
The highest paid dentists typically include dental anesthesiologists and oral and maxillofacial surgeons, with salaries ranging from $290,000 to $400,000 annually. In comparison, the average salary for a general dentist is between $175,800 and $221,500, with a mid-salary of $196,700.
The path to becoming a DDS can be challenging, involving rigorous academic requirements and demanding practical training. However, the effort can be rewarding, with salaries ranging from $175,800 to $221,500, reflecting the high level of expertise and commitment required in this profession. Lifelong learning is essential to stay current in the field.
The highest paid department in dentistry is typically Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, with senior-level salaries ranging from INR 15 LPA to 30 LPA. In comparison, the salary data for DDS indicates a minimum salary of $175,800, a mid-salary of $196,700, and a maximum salary of $221,500, reflecting the lucrative nature of this specialization.
The three-year, full-time postgraduate Master of Dental Surgery (MDS) is the highest degree in dentistry awarded in India. Holders of this degree often work as consultants in specialties such as Prosthodontics, Periodontics, and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. Salaries for these professionals typically range from $175,800 to $221,500, with a median of $196,700.
Salary.com salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons are derived from both employer job postings and third-party data sources. We also provide multiple percentiles of salary information for your reference, click here to know Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial to Getting Pay Equity Right. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.
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