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Associate Dentist Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

MB2 Dental

Dentist - Mt. Vernon

Ash Grove, MO · On-site

$250K/yr

About Clear Creek Family Dental Our team at Clear Creek Family Dental is excited to add an Associate Dentist to our practice in Mt. Vernon, MO. We strive to eliminate the common patient fear of the ...

MB2 Dental

Dentist - Mt. Vernon

Ash Grove, MO

$250K/yr

About Clear Creek Family Dental Our team at Clear Creek Family Dental is excited to add an Associate Dentist to our practice in Mt. Vernon, MO. We strive to eliminate the common patient fear of the ...

Lumio Dental

Pediatric Dentist

Springfield, MO · On-site

$450K - $600K/yr

Take part in creating smiles around the world! * Full-time Associates are eligible for benefits including medical, vision, dental, 401k, malpractice insurance, monthly gym reimbursement, quarterly ...

Lumio Dental

Pediatric Dentist

Springfield, MO · On-site

$450K - $600K/yr

Take part in creating smiles around the world! * Full-time Associates are eligible for benefits including medical, vision, dental, 401k, malpractice insurance, monthly gym reimbursement, quarterly ...

Lumio Dental

Pediatric Dentist

Springfield, MO

$450K - $600K/yr

Take part in creating smiles around the world! * Full-time Associates are eligible for benefits including medical, vision, dental, 401k, malpractice insurance, monthly gym reimbursement, quarterly ...

Lumio Dental

Pediatric Dentist

Springfield, MO · On-site

$450K - $600K/yr

Take part in creating smiles around the world! * Full-time Associates are eligible for benefits including medical, vision, dental, 401k, malpractice insurance, monthly gym reimbursement, quarterly ...

Lumio Dental

Pediatric Dentist

Springfield, MO · On-site

$450K - $600K/yr

Take part in creating smiles around the world! * Full-time Associates are eligible for benefits including medical, vision, dental, 401k, malpractice insurance, monthly gym reimbursement, quarterly ...

Lumio Dental

Pediatric Dentist

Springfield, MO

$450K - $600K/yr

Take part in creating smiles around the world! * Full-time Associates are eligible for benefits including medical, vision, dental, 401k, malpractice insurance, monthly gym reimbursement, quarterly ...

Lumio Dental

Pediatric Dentist

Springfield, MO · On-site

$450K - $600K/yr

Take part in creating smiles around the world! * Full-time Associates are eligible for benefits including medical, vision, dental, 401k, malpractice insurance, monthly gym reimbursement, quarterly ...

Enable Dental

Mobile Dentist

Ozark, MO · On-site

$900 - $1.2K/day

Mobile Dentist - Enable Dental Enable Dental is at the forefront of delivering compassionate and convenient dental care through our mobile dental services. We aim to bring high-quality dental care ...

Enable Dental

Mobile Dentist

Ozark, MO · On-site

$900 - $1.2K/day

Mobile Dentist - Enable Dental Enable Dental is at the forefront of delivering compassionate and convenient dental care through our mobile dental services. We aim to bring high-quality dental care ...

360care

Dentist

Springfield, MO · On-site

The Dental Care you provide gives the residents of the facilities we serve their dignity and quality of life! As a 1099 Independent Contractor, you will receive great compensation and enjoy a ...

Integrity Placement Group

General Dentist

Ozark, MO · On-site

$190K/yr

Dentist - Camdenton, MO Our Client is a progressive, financially stable Federally Qualified Health Center serving the Missouri Ozarks, a scenic, close-knit region built around the Lake of the Ozarks ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsAssociate Dentist JobsAssociate Dentist Jobs in Springfield, MO

Associate Dentist information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$24.6K

$128.4K

$282.4K

How much do associate dentist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate dentist in Springfield, MO is $128,448.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,200.00 and $193,300.00 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 Springfield, MO? The most popular types of Dentist jobs in Springfield, MO are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Dentist jobs in Springfield, MO? For Associate Dentist jobs in Springfield, MO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Dentist jobs in Springfield, MO look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Dentist jobs in Springfield, MO are:
What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Associate Dentist jobs? Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Associate Dentist job openings:
Associate Dentist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Dentist job openings in Springfield, MO as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $128,448 per year, or $61.8 per hour.

Associate Dentist

Smiles Made Perfect Dental Partners

Springfield, MO

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Smiles Made Perfect is seeking a motivated Associate Dentist to join our thriving general dental practice in Springfield, Missouri.

About Our Practice

At Smiles Made Perfect, we specialize in cosmetic dentistry and dental implants, helping patients achieve confident, beautiful smiles. What sets us apart is our signature Smile Test Drive — a unique 30-minute experience where we sculpt a preview of the patient’s dream smile using composite material. This innovative approach allows patients to “test drive” their new smile before committing to treatment.

Learn more about us at: smilesmadeperfect.com

Position Highlights:

• Compensation: 30% of collections

• Schedule: Monday – Thursday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (4-day work week with 3-day weekends)

• Ownership Opportunity: Clear path to ownership available after 1 year as an associate

• Sign-On Bonus: $10,000 paid over a 2-year period

What We Offer:

• Competitive production-based compensation with strong earning potential

• $10,000 sign-on bonus

• Mentorship and hands-on training in cosmetics and implants

• Established patient base with a strong focus on elective cosmetic and implant cases

• Modern, well-equipped office with up-to-date technology

• Supportive team environment focused on high-quality, patient-centered care

• Opportunity to perform Smile Test Drives and advanced cosmetic procedures

Qualifications:

• DDS or DMD from an accredited dental school

• Active Missouri dental license (or eligibility to obtain one)

• New graduates welcome — we provide excellent mentorship

• Experience or strong interest in cosmetic dentistry and implants preferred

Springfield, Missouri offers an excellent quality of life with affordable housing, great schools, outdoor activities, and a growing community.

We are a family owned practice and family is our focus. We work hard for a strong work/life balance for all of our employees. We strive to give our patients the idea that going to the dentist will be the best part of their day. We also want our employees to feel that coming to work is the best part of their day as well.

If you are a passionate dentist who loves creating beautiful smiles and wants a practice with both clinical excellence and a clear path to ownership, we would love to meet you!

To apply, respond here or reach out to us on our website. Lysa Munden, our Marketing/Recruiting Director will be in touch.

Visit us online: smilesmadeperfect.com

We look forward to welcoming the right candidate to the Smiles Made Perfect team!


Employment Type: Full Time
Bonus/Commission: Yes