Salaries/Dentist vs Physician

Dentist vs Physician Salary

Side-by-side 2026 salary comparison across entry-level, mid-level, and senior pay for Dentist and Physician roles in the US.

Bottom line (mid-level, US median)

Physicians earn $85,000 (33% more) than Dentists on average.

Dentist vs Physician by City

LocationDentist (Mid)Physician (Mid)Difference
New York$237K$352K$-115K
Los Angeles$213K$316K$-103K
Chicago$194K$289K$-95K
Dallas$185K$275K$-90K
Houston$183K$272K$-89K
Washington D.C.$222K$330K$-108K
Philadelphia$189K$281K$-92K
Atlanta$185K$275K$-90K

Healthcare

Dentist

Diagnose and treat oral conditions, perform procedures, and lead preventive dental care.

See Dentist salaries in all cities →

Healthcare

Physician

Diagnose, treat, and manage patients across primary care or specialty practice.

See Physician salaries in all cities →
🤖

Negotiating a job offer?

Stop guessing. Get personalized scripts, market insights, and expert tactics for your specific situation using our free AI negotiation coach.

Ask the AI Coach

Not sure which path pays better for you?

Salaries.AI personalizes the comparison to your skills, experience, and location — and coaches you through negotiating either offer.

Ask the AI Negotiation Coach →Join the waitlist