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Clinical Dentist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pbjcal

$129K - $200K/yr

Clinical Dentists also perform a variety of dental procedures to include regular cleanings, cavity treatments, extractions, root canals, and crown placement. They may follow up with patients who have ...

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Clinical Dentist information

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$59.5K

$190K

$338K

How much do clinical dentist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for clinical dentist in the United States is $189,979.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $131,000.00 and $236,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a clinical dentist?

Clinical dentists are licensed dental professionals who diagnose, prevent, and treat oral health issues in patients. They perform examinations, cleanings, fillings, extractions, and various other dental procedures within a clinical setting. Their primary focus is on maintaining and improving oral health, managing dental diseases, and providing patient education. Clinical dentists may also refer patients to dental specialists when advanced care is needed.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a clinical dentist?

To thrive as a Clinical Dentist, you need a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree, state licensure, and a deep understanding of oral anatomy and dental procedures. Familiarity with dental radiography, practice management software, and infection control protocols is essential. Strong communication, manual dexterity, and attention to detail are crucial soft skills for building patient trust and ensuring precise treatments. These skills and qualifications are vital for delivering safe, effective, and patient-centered dental care.

What are some common challenges clinical dentists face when transitioning from dental school to a professional practice setting?

New clinical dentists often find the transition from dental school to professional practice challenging due to increased responsibility, managing a diverse patient base, and balancing clinical efficiency with high-quality care. Unlike the structured environment in school, practicing dentists must make independent clinical decisions, handle time management, and develop strong communication skills with both patients and support staff. Additionally, navigating insurance processes and understanding practice management are key areas where new dentists need to quickly adapt to ensure a smooth workflow and positive patient experience.

What is the difference between Clinical Dentist vs General Dentist?

AspectClinical DentistGeneral Dentist
CredentialsDental Degree, Licensure, possibly specializationDental Degree, Licensure
Work EnvironmentClinics, hospitals, specialized practicesPrivate practices, clinics, community health centers
Job FocusSpecialized treatments, complex proceduresRoutine dental care, preventive services
Employer & IndustryHospitals, specialized clinics, research centersPrivate practices, dental offices, clinics

While both Clinical Dentists and General Dentists hold dental degrees and licensure, Clinical Dentists often focus on specialized or complex treatments within clinical settings, whereas General Dentists provide routine dental care and preventive services in a variety of practice environments. The roles overlap in credentials but differ in scope and work environment.

More about Clinical Dentist jobs

What job categories do people searching Clinical Dentist jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Clinical Dentist jobs are:

Clinical Dentist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Clinical Dentist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $189,979 per year, or $91.3 per hour.

Clinical Dentist

Dover, DE • On-site

Employment at Delaware Technical Community College
See more jobs at Employment at Delaware Technical Community Collegeexternal

$100/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Position Information
Position Title Clinical Dentist Position Number TBD Position Type Temporary Part-Time Hiring Location George Campus-Wilmington, DE Contact Phone Number 302-573-5469 Contact Email Address w-jobs@dtcc.edu Work Location George Campus-Wilmington, DE Position Specific Details
An incumbent will support the Dental Health Center at the George Campus by performing comprehensive, direct patient care; and participating in the supervision and training of the College's Dental Hygiene Program students, and external dental resident students on rotation in the facility. 
Salary $100.00
Classification Information
Classification Title Clinical Dentist Job Code 3504 (PT Only) FLSA Exempt Position Pay Grade C00 Position Type Part-Time Summary Statement

An incumbent will support the Dental Health Center at the George Campus by performing comprehensive, direct patient care; and participating in the supervision and training of the College's Dental Hygiene Program students, and external dental resident students on rotation in the facility.

Nature and Scope

An incumbent reports to the Dental Health Center Director. Work includes direct dental care to include but not limited to diagnostic, preventive, restorative, periodontal, endodontic, orthodontia, oral surgery, and prosthetic services by applying the principles, theories and practices of dental science; and instruction, supervision and evaluation of all students in training.

Principal Accountabilities

An incumbent may perform any combination of the below listed accountabilities:

1. Performs dental examinations of teeth and surrounding tissue using x-rays and medical history records to determine dental treatment needs.

2. Formulates comprehensive dental treatment plans to restore and maintain optimal oral health.

3. Provides dental services including but not limited to cleaning, scaling, bonding, fillings, extractions, restorations, oral surgery, pulp therapy for root canal treatment of anterior teeth, simple bridgework, crown work, partial dentures, and installs space maintainers and prepares procedures for orthodontic appliances.

4. Prescribes and dispenses medication as required.

5. Administers local anesthesia.

6. Supervises, trains and evaluates clinic staff and students.

7. Writes statistical and/or evaluative reports.

8. Provides emergency dental services to members of the community.

9. Maintains accurate, legible, and confidential oral health records.

10. Makes referrals to specialists as needed.

11. Performs other related duties as required.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of the principles and practices of dental medicine and surgery in accordance with the ADA guidelines.
Knowledge of use and care of hand instruments, dental equipment and the appropriate use of dental materials and medications.
Knowledge of federal, state and local rules and regulations.
Knowledge of current developments in the field of dentistry.
Knowledge of clinical teaching methods.
Ability to train, supervise and evaluate clinic staff and students.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Skill in performing a full range of dental services.
Skill in diagnostic techniques.
Ability to detect and identify existing conditions and select appropriate corrective action.
Ability to complete accurate statistical and evaluative reports.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates, students, administration, and all other community stakeholders.
Ability to educate patients and their families regarding dental health hygiene and its relationship to overall health.

Minimum Qualifications

Doctorate of Dental Medicine (DMD) or Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree, and experience in a dental office or clinic setting.
Valid license to practice dentistry in the State of Delaware.

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