How much does a dentist earn in the USA?

Written by: Wagner Pontes

The average salary is one of the main criteria for dentists who want to live abroad and build a professional career in another country. After all, expectations must match what the country has to offer. In this respect, the United States is second to none.

Can you imagine receiving salary up to 18 times higher as a dentist? It’s no coincidence that he’s considered the ” Land of Dreams and Opportunities“.

The American dream is the proposal that brings together the largest number of businessmen and entrepreneurs in the world, as well as many health professionals, since there is high demand with excellent payment offers for these services.

But how much does a dentist earn in the USA?

This exclusive content from D4U Immigration reveals how much a dentist earns in each US state, as well as extra tips on the process of becoming a dentist. how to become a dentist in the United States and clarifies the main doubts on the subject.

What is the average salary for a dentist in the USA?

Average Dentist Salary United States

While the average salary for a dentist in Brazil is R$ 51,792.00 per year, in the United States the average salary for dentists is US$ 164 thousand (approximately R$ 916,257.80 – almost 18 times higherconsidering the dollar at R$5.58), according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) for 2023. It’s worth remembering that the national salary floor for dentists was set at R$10.991,19

in 2022, through Bill 1365/22. However, this floor is still under consideration in the Senate and has not yet been approved.

Average salary per state for dentists in the USA

The average annual salary for dentists in the United States is approximately US$ 164,000, and can vary from from US$ 79,000 to over US$ 208,000depending on factors such as specialization, experience and location.

flags south dakota - new york - california

Currently, the three US states with the highest salaries for dentists are:

  1. South Dakota in first place, with an average salary of $347,000
  2. New York in second place with an average salary of $249,000
  3. California in third place with an average of $257,000

While the states with the lowest average salaries in the United States for dentists are West Virginia ($145,550), Mississippi ($139,160) and North Dakota ($144,510).

List of average annual salaries for dentists in the USA

Check out the average salary for dentists in each US state below:

  1. Alabama: $162,000
  2. Alaska: $242,800
  3. Arizona: $190,200
  4. Arkansas: $165,100
  5. California: $257,000
  6. North Carolina: $184,300
  7. South Carolina: $181,600
  8. Colorado: $212,300
  9. Connecticut: $222,100
  10. North Dakota: $185,700
  11. South Dakota: $347,000
  12. Delaware: $202,200
  13. Florida: $188,700
  14. Georgia: $182,300
  15. Hawaii: $186,900
  16. Idaho: $181,200
  17. Illinois: $195,000
  18. Indiana: $178,500
  19. Iowa: $169,400
  20. Kansas: $171,100
  21. Kentucky: $172,000
  22. Louisiana: $172,200
  23. Maine: $236,000
  24. Maryland: $217,400
  25. Massachusetts: $225,200
  26. Michigan: $174,900
  27. Minnesota: $185,100
  28. Mississippi: $164,900
  29. Missouri: $173,500
  30. Montana: $196,400
  31. Nebraska: $176,800
  32. Nevada: $212,500
  33. New Hampshire: $222,400
  34. New York: $249,000
  35. New Jersey: $214,100
  36. New Mexico: $182,100
  37. Ohio: $179,800
  38. Oklahoma: $167,800
  39. Oregon: $205,300
  40. Pennsylvania: $201,700
  41. Rhode Island: $258,900
  42. Tennessee: $172,800
  43. Texas: $192,700
  44. Utah: $200,400
  45. Vermont: $254,200
  46. West Virginia: $174,500
  47. Virginia: $206,900
  48. Washington: $213,800
  49. Wisconsin: $175,300
  50. Wyoming: $210,100

Finally, it is worth noting that, in addition to salary, other factors such as cost of living, career opportunities and quality of life should also be considered when choosing a place to work as a dentist in the USA. In addition, specialties such as prosthetics, oral and maxillofacial surgery and orthodontics can significantly increase annual earnings.

What visa do I need to work as a dentist in the USA?

Dentist salary United States

The most common visa for Brazilian dentists is the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver), intended for professionals with exceptional qualifications or advanced skills who can significantly benefit the country.

Dentist: EB-2 NIW approved for the USA:

Other American visa that can be considered:

  • EB-1: Visa for professionals with extraordinary or outstanding abilities.
  • H-1B: Work visa for those who already have an offer from an employer in the USA, including dentists.

It is essential to consult immigration experts to assess your specific situation and help you choose the most suitable most suitable visa.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about becoming a dentist in the USA

In order to clarify all the points about the immigration process for dentists to the United Stateswe have highlighted the main questions we have received from countless dentists assisted by D4U Immigration over the years. Check out below what the requirements to work as a dentist in the USAas well as the need for a doctorate, diploma validation, English proficiency and licensure in the desired state. in the desired state.

1. What are the basic requirements for working as a dentist in the USA?

To work as a dentist in the USA, the basic requirements include:

  1. Diploma in DentistryCompletion of a DDS or DMD program.
  2. Licensing: Obtaining a license to practice dentistry in the desired state.
  3. National and regional examsPassing the NBDE (Part I and II) and a regional clinical examination.
  4. Proof of English ProficiencyDemonstrate proficiency in the English language, often through tests such as the TOEFL.
  5. Clinical ExperienceDepending on the state, it may be necessary to complete a period of residency or gain practical experience.

What it’s like to be a dentist in the United States | D4U CAST:

2. How do I validate my diploma to work as a dentist in the USA?

To validate your dental degree in the USA, follow the steps below:

  1. Credential evaluationEducational Credential Evaluators (ECE) or World Education Services (WES) can evaluate your academic credentials.
  2. Advanced Education ProgramMany states require foreign dentists to complete an advanced dental education program at an accredited U.S. institution.
  3. National Board Dental ExaminationYou will need to pass the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) Part I and II.
  4. Regional Clinical ExaminationPass a regional clinical examination, such as the Western Regional Examining Board (WREB) or the Central Regional Dental Testing Service (CRDTS).
  5. State licensingEach state has specific licensing requirements. Check with the dental board of the state where you wish to practice.

Check out the content on: Diploma validation for the United States

3. How long does it take to validate my dental degree in the USA?

The validation process can take from 1 to 3 years, depending on the specific state requirements and how quickly you complete the necessary exams and programs.

EB2-NIW approved dentist in 7 months for the USA:

4. Do you need a doctorate to work as a dentist in the USA?

In the United States, practicing dentistry requires a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. These programs generally last four years and include both theoretical education and practical clinical training.

DENTIST APPROVED FOR EB-2 NIW – VISA FOR THE U.S. IN JUST 11 MONTHS:

5. Is it necessary to do a dental residency in the USA?

In some states, residency is not compulsory, but it may be required or recommended for certain dental specialties.

6. Can I work while I’m waiting for my diploma to be validated?

No, you cannot work as a dentist until your degree is validated and you have obtained the necessary license. However, you can look for health-related jobs that don’t require a license.

Dentist with EB-2 NIW for the USA approved after RFE and negative:

7. Are there scholarships or funding available for foreign dentists?

Yes, some universities and organizations offer scholarships and funding programs for foreign dentists seeking degree validation and advanced education in the US.

8. What is the NBDE exam and how do I prepare for it?

The National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) is a two-part exam that tests theoretical and clinical knowledge. Preparation includes studying recommended materials, taking preparatory courses and doing mock exams.

9. Can I transfer my license from one state to another?

Yes, but the process varies by state. Some states have reciprocity agreements, while others require you to pass new exams or complete additional requirements.

10. Where can I find additional resources and support for working as a dentist in the USA?

There are several organizations and online forums that offer support to foreign dentists.

However, the most recommended option is to consult professional immigration specialists with proven expertise, such as D4U Immigration, voted in 2021, 2022 and 2023 as the Best Immigration Consultancy in the United States and Latin America. D4U Immigration is an immigration consultancy that specializes in the U.S. visa approval process. 99% approval rate e more than 11,000 beneficiaries.

Dentist approved for EB-2 NIW to the USA in 9 months:

What’s more, among our differentials, we offer a specialist for each stage and reapplication at no extra cost.

Check out some of oursuccessful cases, with approved clients, and our services and solutions for the immigration process. If you prefer, contact us at D4U Immigration WhatsApp.

Wagner Pontes

Fundador e CEO da D4U Immigration, do Piquet Race Park e da Okkla Realty, Wagner Pontes é residente nos EUA por quase uma década e possui mais de 20 anos de experiência como empreendedor. Formado em Immigration Law pela Washington College e com um LL.M. na Dayton University, foi membro consultivo da comissão de Direito Internacional na OAB nos anos de 2020 e 2021. Em 2008, recebeu o prêmio de Jovem Empreendedor do Ano pela revista Jovem Empreendedor e, em 2020, foi eleito Melhor CEO do segmento de mobilidade global pela revista britânica CEO Monthly.

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