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Associate Dentist Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Challenger Family Dental

Associate Dentist

Clayton, NC

$10K - $20K/mo

Title Associate Dentist Key Responsibilities: Perform high-quality dental treatments with precision and care. Conduct patient consultations and treatment planning. Utilize scanning technology to ...

Star Dental Partners

Associate Dentist

Raleigh, NC · On-site

As an associate dentist, you can expect an unmatched opportunity that includes more than 70 new patients per month on average and a same day dentistry emphasis to maximize access to care for patients.

Star Dental Partners

Associate Dentist

Raleigh, NC

As an associate dentist, you can expect an unmatched opportunity that includes more than 70 new patients per month on average and a same day dentistry emphasis to maximize access to care for patients.

Star Dental Partners

Associate Dentist

Raleigh, NC

As an associate dentist, you can expect an unmatched opportunity that includes more than 70 new patients per month on average and a same day dentistry emphasis to maximize access to care for patients.

Star Dental Partners

Associate Dentist

Raleigh, NC · On-site

As an associate dentist, you can expect an unmatched opportunity that includes more than 70 new patients per month on average and a same day dentistry emphasis to maximize access to care for patients.

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsAssociate Dentist JobsAssociate Dentist Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Associate Dentist information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$26.2K

$137.3K

$301.8K

How much do associate dentist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate dentist in Raleigh, NC is $137,267.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,800.00 and $206,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Associate Dentist vs General Dentist?

AspectAssociate DentistGeneral Dentist
CredentialsDDS or DMD, state licensureDDS or DMD, state licensure
Work EnvironmentDental clinics, private practices, group practicesDental clinics, private practices, group practices
Employer & Industry UsageTypically employed by dental practices or clinicsSame as Associate Dentist, often used interchangeably
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both Associate Dentists and General Dentists hold similar credentials and work in comparable environments. The term "Associate Dentist" often refers to a dentist working as an employee or partner within a practice, while "General Dentist" is a broader term for dentists providing comprehensive dental care. In practice, these roles are often used interchangeably, with the main difference being the context or employment status.

What are Associate Dentists?

Associate Dentists are licensed dental professionals who work in dental practices, usually under the supervision or partnership of a senior dentist or practice owner. They provide a wide range of dental services such as exams, cleanings, fillings, and sometimes more specialized procedures. Associate Dentists typically do not own the practice but are employed by the practice owner and may be paid a salary, commission, or a combination of both. This role allows dentists to gain experience, build patient relationships, and sometimes eventually become practice partners or owners themselves.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Dentist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Dentist, you need a dental degree (DDS or DMD), state licensure, and expertise in clinical procedures such as restorative, preventive, and diagnostic dentistry. Familiarity with dental practice management software, digital radiography, and sterilization protocols is also essential. Strong communication, attention to detail, and a compassionate bedside manner help build patient trust and ensure positive experiences. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering high-quality care, maintaining patient satisfaction, and adhering to safety and regulatory standards.

What Is an Associate Dentist?

As an associate dentist, you work at a dental practice as a non-owner dentist. In dental associateships, you are either an employee or an independent contractor. Your job duties are the same regardless: examining patients, repairing cavities, and educating patients about oral health. However, as an independent contractor, your responsibilities include setting your hours, managing your appointment calendar, and using and maintaining your instruments. You need strong organizational skills and people skills. The qualifications for a career as a dental associate are graduation from dental school and the completion of a residency program.

What are some common challenges an Associate Dentist might face when joining a new dental practice?

Associate Dentists often encounter challenges such as adapting to the practice’s established protocols, building trust with existing patients, and integrating with the dental team. It can take time to understand the specific workflow, patient management systems, and expectations for productivity. Open communication with senior dentists and staff, as well as a willingness to learn the practice’s culture, can help smooth the transition and foster professional growth.
More about Associate Dentist jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Dentist jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Dentist jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Dentist jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Associate Dentist jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Dentist jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Dentist jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Associate Dentist jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Associate Dentist job openings:
Associate Dentist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Dentist job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $137,267 per year, or $66 per hour.

Associate Dentist

North State Dental Partners Inc.

Cary, NC • On-site

Other

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Full-Time Associate Dentist Opportunity

North State Dental Partners is searching for an exceptional dentist to join our growing group of dental practices in North Carolina. Current search is for full-time associate dentist (4 days/week - Mon-Thurs) for an established general practice in Cary, NC. Primarily fee-for-service dental practice focused intently on providing exceptional patient care through a great patient experience. Our recipe for success is simple: find great people, train them well, empower/motivate them, and facilitate their development as clinical leaders.

We offer:

  • opportunity for personal and professional growth
  • personalized leadership and clinical development
  • great compensation and benefits package
  • a supportive team who is invested in your success
  • a network of experienced mentors and peers
  • great work / life balance
  • business support from a dedicated team of professionals

We want our dentists to:

  • have fun and enjoy their work
  • be passionate about dentistry and their work family
  • believe in getting better every day, and be genuinely open to feedback
  • value working in a collaborative environment
  • provide exceptional patient care and value patient satisfaction

Our dentists lead their team through each day and support the values, culture, operations, and goals of the practice. We greatly value our dentists and their team! We encourage everyone to help us improve our processes and take the initiative to make their practice better. Our teams build lasting, trustworthy relationships with patients. We have the latest technology and equipment to treat our patients in all areas of dentistry. We want to ensure continuity of care and convenience for our patients by providing as many services as we can "in house." Every dentist has great earnings potential with possible ownership opportunities.

If we sound like a great match for you, we would love the opportunity to meet you and get to know you better. Joining the right practice can change your life. Come join our work family and together we will change the lives of others!

Apply