Dentist pay
What dentists earn — and keep — in 2026
Dentistry requires a DDS or DMD degree and is among the best-paid healthcare careers. The BLS reports a median dentist wage of $179,210 (May 2024). Orthodontists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons and practice owners earn well into the $200,000s and beyond — the top 10% exceed the BLS reporting cap.
Where a dentist's paycheck goes
On the $179,210 median, a single dentist pays federal income tax into the 24% bracket after the standard deduction, plus Social Security up to the $184,500 wage base and 1.45% Medicare, with the 0.9% Additional Medicare Tax kicking in above $200,000. Practice owners' net depends on entity structure.
The highest-paying states for dentists
Dentists earn the most in states with high demand and limited competition — including New Hampshire, California, New York, Washington and Texas. Washington and Texas pair top pay with no state income tax.
Compare the role with other careers
See how dentist pay compares with a doctor or veterinarian, or check your exact net in Texas.
Questions
Dentist Salary Calculator FAQ
How much does a dentist make in 2026?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median annual wage of $179,210 for dentists (May 2024). Orthodontists, oral surgeons, endodontists and practice owners earn far more, often well into the $200,000s.
What is a dentist's take-home pay on $179,210?
A single dentist earning the $179,210 median takes home roughly $128,000 to $131,000 a year after federal income tax and FICA in a no-income-tax state, less where state tax applies. Practice owners' net depends on their business structure.
Do dentists pay the Additional Medicare Tax?
Dentists earning above $200,000 (single) pay an extra 0.9% Medicare tax on income over that threshold, and earnings above the $184,500 Social Security wage base are exempt from the 6.2% SS tax. This calculator applies both automatically.
Which states pay dentists the most?
Dentists earn the highest wages in high-demand states including New Hampshire, California, New York, Washington and Texas. No-income-tax states like Washington and Texas keep far more of a six-figure salary in your pocket.
- Sources: BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook — Dentists (median $179,210, May 2024) · IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-32 · SSA 2026 wage base · State departments of revenue.
- 🔄 Last updated June 9, 2026 · Tax year 2026
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