Most dental professionals earn less than the average amount of dental education debt in the U.S., according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the American Dental Education Association.
The average amount of dental school debt has declined in recent years to $286,200. Despite the decline, oral and maxillofacial surgeons are the only position to earn more.
Here is how annual compensation for six dental roles compares to education debt in 2023:
Average annual salary for six dental roles:
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons: $321,480
Dentists, all other specialists: $276,920
Orthodontists: $218,130
Dentists, general: $174,140
Dental hygienists: $84,860
Dental assistants: $44,710
Average dental education debt: $286,200