The states where 7 dental professions earn the most

The average annual salary for dental professions, including dentists, dental hygienists and orthodontists, vary widely from state to state, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The agency updated salary data April 3 to reflect May 2023 figures. 

Here are the highest-paying states for seven different dental professions, along with the average annual earnings:

Note: Compensation data was not available for every dental profession in every state.

General dentists

Highest-paying state: Vermont

Average annual wage: $260,380

Dental hygienists

Highest-paying state: Washington

Average annual wage: $123,510

Dental assistants

Highest-paying state: Minnesota

Average annual wage: $62,760

Orthodontists

Highest-paying state: Michigan

Average annual wage: $329,620

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons

Highest-paying state: North Carolina

Average annual wage: $361,480

Specialty dentists

Highest-paying state: Connecticut

Average annual wage: $312,500

Dental laboratory technicians

Highest-paying state: Massachusetts

Average annual wage: $62,180

Copyright © 2024 Becker's Healthcare. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy. Cookie Policy. Linking and Reprinting Policy.