10 Highest Paying Countries for Dentists – Top Companies & Avg Salary

10 Highest Paying Countries for Dentists: USA, Switzerland, UK, Australia, Netherlands, Ireland, Norway, Canada, New Zealand & UAE.

These countries are known for their well-established healthcare systems and competitive compensation packages. In addition to high salaries, these countries offer a variety of job opportunities for dentists that range from assistant roles to specialisations. This overview explores the average dentist salary in each country while highlighting their relative cost of living to help dental professionals make informed decisions regarding their career choices.   

Do you know?

• There is a significant shortage of dental talent, with 30%- 40% of dental offices actively recruiting to fill in the gaps for dental hygienists and dental assistants. [1] 
• Over 68% of WHO Member States have fewer than 5 dentists per 10,000 people, with 37% having less than one. [2] This scarcity of skilled labour has opened up many international job opportunities for dentists with the option to migrate to high-paying countries. 
• The U.S. Bureau of Labour Statistics projects that the number of jobs for dentists will grow by at least 6% by 2031.[3].
• The global dental market, including dental cement, is anticipated to reach a value of 10.1 billion by 2026. This projection underscores the significant economic impact of the dental industry, reflecting its growth and importance in the healthcare sector. [4]

Quick Overview

Notes: 

• Cost of living includes average costs for transportation and basic amenities like food and grocery bills, etc. The cost of living excludes rent.

• For currencies – CHF, NOK, NZD, and AED in Cost of Living, the Forbes Currency Convertor Tool was used on 12th July 2024 at 21:00 HRS IST.

Source:

• Payscale, Livingcost (Refer to country-wise pages)

10 Highest Paying Countries for Dentists

1. USA – Avg Salary (USD 151,778)

The USA is one of the strongest economies in the world. Its healthcare industry is known to be the most lucrative in the world. 

The country offers cutting-edge technology that helps professionals pursuing dentistry explore their skill sets and excel in their specialisations. The US healthcare community also has a robust network offering great connections with professionals within the industry and support from major organisations like the American Dental Association. 

The average dentist’s salary based on experience is as follows:

• Entry-level – Entry-level Dentists can earn an annual salary of USD 50,000.
• Experienced Professionals – Experienced dentistry professionals can earn up to USD 206,286 yearly. 

Also read: How to get a job in the USA.

2. Switzerland – Avg Salary (CHF 103,000)

Switzerland offers exceptional opportunities for dentists with its high standard of living, advanced healthcare system and strong economy. As the Swiss healthcare system keeps expanding to meet the needs of its growing population and modern health concerns, the need for dentists is at an all-time high. 

Dentistry roles are offered competitive salaries and benefits like excellent working conditions and access to cutting-edge technology in dental care facilities. 

The average dentist’s salary based on experience is as follows:

• Entry-level – Dentists with 1 to 3 years of experience in Switzerland can earn CHF 135,361 annually.
• Experienced Dentists – Dentists with 8+ years of experience can earn CHF 248,365 annually.

3. UK – Avg Salary (GBP 52,528)

The UK’s healthcare system, backed by prestigious institutions and advanced research, offers dentists opportunities within the NHS and lucrative private sectors with competitive salaries.

The average dentist ’salary based on experience is as follows:

• Entry-Level – Dentists at the entry level can expect to earn GBP 23,400 annually.
• Experienced Professionals – Experienced Dentists can earn up to GBP 80,000 annually. 

Also Read: How to get a job in the UK?

4. Australia – Avg Salary (AUD 104,592)

According to the Australian Dental Association, Australia has been facing an increasing demand for dentists due to the growing population and retiring dentists. This opportunity not only ensures dentists a stable career in Australia but has also led to employers offering competitive salary packages to attract skilled professionals. Most dentists also enjoy autonomy in Australia and start their practices, which allows them to earn substantial incomes.  

The average dentist ’salary based on experience is as follows:

• Entry-level – Dentists can expect to earn AUD 116,916 annually.

• Experienced Dentists – Experienced Dentists in higher positions can earn up to AUD 200,000 annually.

Also read: How to get a job in Australia.

5. Netherlands – Avg Salary (EUR 41,142)

The Dutch healthcare system is known for its high-quality dental care and specialised treatments. With the current shortage of skilled professionals, the industry offers attractive job opportunities to dentists.

The excellent work-life balance and the quality standard of living make the Netherlands a favourable option for dentists wanting to practise abroad. The average dentist’s salary based on experience is as follows:

• Entry-level – Dentists with 1 to 3 years of experience can earn a salary of EUR 86,822 annually.
• Experienced Dentists – Dentists with 8+ years of work experience can earn a salary of EUR 159,304 annually.

Also read: Average salary in the Netherlands

6. Ireland – Avg Salary (EUR 55,000)

Ireland’s strong demand for dental professionals, competitive dentist salary packages and access to state-of-the-art medical technology make it an exceptional choice for dentistry professionals. 

Moreover, the emphasis on work-life balance, a supportive professional community and a high quality of life make it an ideal option for those seeking fulfilling career satisfaction. 

The average Dentists salary based on experience is as follows:

• Entry-level – Dentists can expect a salary of EUR 63,750 annually.
• Experienced professionals – An experienced dentist in Ireland can make up to EUR 125,000 annually. 

Also read: How to get a job in Ireland from India 2024: (6 easy steps)

7. Norway – Avg Salary (NOK 707,913)

Norway has one of the lowest population-to-dentist ratios in the world. Additionally, Norway offers competitive salaries for job roles and access to advanced dental technology, which allows dentistry professionals to explore their skills and enhance their industry knowledge.     

The average dentist’s salary based on experience is as follows:

• Entry-level – Dentists with 1 to 3 years of experience in Norway can earn NOK 1,062,041 annually.
• Experienced Dentists – Dentists with 8+ years of experience can earn NOK 1,948,656 annually.

8. Canada – Avg Salary (CAD 117,742)

Dentistry offers a stable and lucrative career in Canada. While obtaining the necessary licences and certificates is required, candidates receive comprehensive support and guidance. Competitive salaries and increasing demand for dental services further solidify dentistry as a stable and promising career in Canada.

The average Dentists salary based on experience is as follows:

• Entry-level – Candidates starting their dentistry career can earn CAD 125,000 annually.
• Experienced Professionals – Experienced Dentists can make up to CAD 228,757 annually. 

Also Read: 5 Steps to Get a Job in Canada

9. New Zealand  – Avg Salary (NZD 91,017)

Thanks to its excellent healthcare system, New Zealand offers diverse opportunities for dentistry professionals. The country also provides a conducive environment for professional growth. 

New Zealand’s progressive dental practices and emphasis on innovation provide a platform for advancing skills and knowledge, making it an ideal choice for professionals wanting to explore their professional growth opportunities. 

The average dentist’s salary based on experience is as follows:

• Entry-level – Dentists with minimal experience in New Zealand can earn NZD 115,883 per year.
• Experienced Dentists – Experienced Dentists can earn NZD 240,000 per year.

10. UAE – Avg Salary (AED 108,000)

With a strong economy, The United Arab Emirates has a rapidly growing job market. Healthcare sectors, especially dentistry, have experienced a high demand for skilled professionals due to the growing population in the country. 

With state-of-the-art healthcare facilities and a multicultural patient base, the country offers a diverse clinical experience and the opportunity to explore one’s professional growth. 

The average dentist’s salary based on experience is as follows:

• Entry-level – An entry-level dentist can earn around AED 96,000.
• Experienced Professionals – A dentist with years of experience can earn around AED 330,000. 

Dentist  jobs abroad: Country-wise salary of Dentists around the world

Note: The above table shows the average salaries for dentists in the top 10 countries. All the currencies have been converted to USD (to create graphs). 

Conversion as of 12th July 2024 between 15:00 HRS to 16:00 HRS IST.

Currency conversion tool: 

https://www.forbes.com/advisor/in/money-transfer/currency-conversion-calculator/

Other emerging countries

Apart from the countries mentioned above, many other countries are also experiencing a high demand for Dentists and offering competitive salaries. Some of the emerging countries for Dentists are:

• Denmark 
• Singapore
• Spain
• Germany
• Japan

Different Types of Dentist Jobs Overseas

Note: The above table illustrates the national average salary for the United States of America.

Source: https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/types-of-dentists 

Do’s and Don’ts

Do’s

• Research thoroughly and understand your target country’s dental industry standards and salary ranges.
• Verify your credentials. Ensure your dental qualifications are recognised and meet local licensing requirements.
• Network with local dental professionals and join international associations and forums.  
• Use reputable employment agencies that specialise in international placements. 
• Familiarise yourself with the local language to improve patient communication and job prospects. 
• Research the structure and functioning of the healthcare system in the destination country. 
•  Tailor your resume to highlight relevant experience and qualifications. 
• Familiarise yourself with the laws and taxation rules of your target country. 

Don’ts

• Do not ignore the cultural norms of the country you plan to relocate to.
• Do not use informal language during your interviews.
• Do not apply for opportunities blindly; ensure they align with your experience and skill set. 
• Do not overlook the need for health insurance upon relocation; healthcare in foreign countries can be expensive.
• Do not ignore your finances and budget your living costs realistically. 

Also read: 6 reality checks for expat life when moving overseas.

Before you go…

Healthcare professions like dentistry are universally respected for their expert knowledge and care, enhancing patients’ quality of life worldwide. If considering a career as a dentist abroad, managing financial aspects like relocation expenses is crucial. 

Choosing a reliable fund transfer service such as Instarem, ensures secure and fast* international money transfers with affordable@ rates and competitive currency conversion.

Instarem also offers convenient fund transfers through the Instarem App which you can easily download using the App Store or Google Play. 

FAQs

Q. How to get a dentistry job in a foreign country?

You can get a dentistry job in a foreign country by searching and applying for jobs on global job portals like LinkedIn. 

Q. Which country pays the highest for dentistry?

The United States of America offers the highest average dentist’s salary per hour. It ranges around USD 72.12 and an annual average salary of USD 151,778. 

Q. Which country has a demand for Dentists?

Countries like Canada, Australia and New Zealand have a high demand for dentists due to their expanding healthcare sectors. 

Q. Which field of dentistry has the highest salary?

Dental anesthesiologists have the highest average annual salary, earning around USD 370,454. 

Q. Which company is the best country for dentists?

Top companies in the USA include Envista Holdings, Henry Schein, and Dentsply Sirona.

Q. What is the starting dentist salary abroad for a fresher in dentistry?

The starting salary for dentist jobs in foreign countries for freshers can vary depending on the country of occupation. The US offers some of the highest entry-level salaries, with an annual salary of around USD 50,000.

Q. How secure is the job of dentistry abroad?

With the growing need for more dentists, dentistry is not just a secure job but an in-demand role abroad.

Q. What is a dentistry salary abroad per month?

The monthly salary for a dentist varies depending on various factors, such as country of occupation, experience, specialisation, etc. A dentist earns around USD 12,500 per month in the USA.

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Disclaimers:

This article is intended for informational purposes only. All details are accurate at the time of publishing. Instarem has no affiliation or relationship with the products or vendors mentioned.

*Fast meaning 75% of our transactions are completed in 15 minutes. Depending on the funding method.

@ When it comes to affordable exchange rates and fees, it’s worth noting that the cost will vary depending on how you choose to fund your transactions. Credit card funding and bank transfer fees can differ significantly. 

Note: Salary and cost of living are taken from different websites between 12th July 2024 and are subject to change.

Citations:

• [1]https://workforcedentalstaffing.com/75-dental-office-statistics-2023/ 
• [2]https://www.who.int/data/gho/data/indicators/indicator-details/GHO/dentists-(number) 
• [3]https://www.webfx.com/industries/health/dentist/statistics/
• [4]https://www.reportlinker.com/clp/global/115677