If you’re considering a job in the dental field, you may want to consider the pay. Many people choose the dental field because they get to make a difference while working with people all day.

We’ve pulled from the most recent data available from the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), along with industry sources, to create an updated list of the highest-paying dental jobs for 2026.

Highest Paid Dentists

Dentists remain the highest earners in the dental profession. As expected, dental specialists earn significantly more than general dentists due to additional training and expertise.

Note: Salary data is based primarily on the latest BLS occupational wage estimates.

First on the list are oral and maxillofacial surgeons, who specialize in surgical procedures involving the mouth, jaw, and face. They earn a median annual salary of $311,460, making them the highest-paid dental professionals.

And yes, that's about $5,990 per week.

Second are orthodontists, who diagnose and treat dental and facial irregularities. Their median salary is $239,200 per year.

Next are endodontists (root canal specialists), earning a median of $218,730 annually.

Periodontists, who treat gum and supporting structures of the teeth, earn around $214,870 per year.

General dentists (including family and cosmetic dentists) earn a median salary of approximately $170,910 annually.

Here is an updated list of the highest-paying dental jobs in 2026:

1. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons - $311,460
2. Orthodontists - $239,200
3. Endodontists - $218,730
4. Periodontists - $214,870
5. General Dentists - $170,910
6. Dental Practice Owners - Varies widely (often $150,000–$300,000+ depending on practice)

See dentist salaries

Other Top Paid Dental Positions

There are many other well-paying roles in dentistry. Here are updated figures for 2026:

Dental Hygienists

Dental hygienists rank among the top earners in dental support roles. The median pay is now $89,890 per year. Top 10% earn over $110,000, while entry-level positions start closer to $65,000.

Many hygienists work part-time, which can impact annual salary totals.

See dental hygienist salaries.

Dental Technicians

Dental technicians (also called dental laboratory technicians) earn a median annual salary of $47,450. Top earners can exceed $75,000 depending on specialization and experience.

Dental Front Desk

Dental front desk receptionists manage scheduling, billing, and patient communication.

Receptionists earn a median salary of about $37,450 per year according to BLS data.

Dental billing specialists typically earn between $45,000–$55,000 annually depending on experience and location.

See dental receptionist salaries

Dental Assistants

Dental assistants earn a median annual salary of $46,540. The top 10% earn more than $60,000, especially with certifications and experience.

See dental assistant salaries.

Highest-paid Areas

Top-paying states and cities can vary year to year, but high-paying regions consistently include states with higher costs of living and strong healthcare demand.

• Dentists
• Best Paying States: Alaska, Rhode Island, New Hampshire
• Best Paying Cities: Anchorage, AK; Providence, RI
• Dental Hygienists
• Best Paying States: Alaska, California, Washington
• Best Paying Cities: Fairbanks, AK; Santa Rosa, CA
• Dental Assistants
• Best Paying States: Minnesota, New Hampshire, Alaska
• Best Paying Cities: Minneapolis, MN
• Dental Front Office Receptionist
• Best Paying States: District of Columbia, New York, Connecticut
• Best Paying Cities: New Haven, CT; Nassau County, NY

With demand for dental care continuing to grow, these roles remain stable and well-compensated career paths in 2026.

Dental salaries vary based on experience, location, and specialization, but these updated figures reflect current national trends.

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