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Dds Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Dentist - DDS/DMD

Merced, CA · On-site

$182K - $260K/yr

Dentist - DDS/DMD Merced, CA - Merced, CA Overview Salary Range $182,000.00 - $260,000.00 Base+Commission/year Description Lumina HealthCare has an exciting opportunity for a Full or Part-Time ...

Dentist - DDS/DMD

Stockton, CA · On-site

$182K - $260K/yr

Dentist - DDS/DMD Stockton, CA - Stockton, CA Overview Salary Range $182,000.00 - $260,000.00 Base+Commission/year Description Lumina HealthCare has an exciting opportunity for a Full or Part-Time ...

Dentist - DDS/DMD

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$182K - $260K/yr

Dentist - DDS/DMD Hot Job Bakersfield, CA Overview Salary Range $182,000.00 - $260,000.00 Base+Commission/year Description Lumina HealthCare has an exciting opportunity for a Full or Part-Time ...

Dentist - DDS/DMD

Modesto, CA · On-site

$182K - $260K/yr

Dentist - DDS/DMD Modesto, CA - Modesto, CA Overview Salary Range $182,000.00 - $260,000.00 Base+Commission/year Description Lumina HealthCare has an exciting opportunity for a Full or Part-Time ...

About Planet DDS We're on a mission to fix dental software - and we're not playing small. Our platform replaces clunky, outdated systems with modern, cloud-based, AI-powered technology built to ...

Learning Consultant

Irvine, CA · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

About Planet DDS We're on a mission to fix dental software - and we're not playing small. Our platform replaces clunky, outdated systems with modern, cloud-based, AI-powered technology built to ...

About Planet DDS We're on a mission to fix dental software - and we're not playing small. Our platform replaces clunky, outdated systems with modern, cloud-based, AI-powered technology built to ...

Dentist (DDS or DMD)

Quincy, CA · On-site

$220 - $300/hr

Dentist (DDS or DMD) Community Health Clinic | Quincy, California A community health clinic serving the Quincy and surrounding Northern California communities is interested in connecting with ...

Learning Consultant

Irvine, CA · On-site +1

$65K - $75K/yr

About Planet DDS We're on a mission to fix dental software - and we're not playing small. Our platform replaces clunky, outdated systems with modern, cloud-based, AI-powered technology built to ...

Dentist - DDS / DMD

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$300 - $450/hr

## Dentist - DDS / DMDApplylocations: Santa Maria, Californiatime type: Full timeposted on: Posted Todayjob requisition id: R2026-008451This opening is a lead dentist role, Managing Clinical Director.At ...

New

Dental Hygenist

Paso Robles, CA · On-site

$68 - $72/hr

Harneet Kaur DDS Urgent Hiring: Immediate Opening for a Highly Skilled Dental Hygienist Be a full time hygenist in our office making great pay incentives. We are looking for a highly motivated dental ...

About Planet DDS We're on a mission to fix dental software - and we're not playing small. Our platform replaces clunky, outdated systems with modern, cloud-based, AI-powered technology built to ...

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Showing results 1-20

Dds information

See California salary details

$61.7K

$207.4K

$358.2K

How much do dds jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for dds in California is $207,385.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $153,000.00 and $247,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)?

DDS stands for Doctor of Dental Surgery, which is a professional degree awarded to dentists upon completion of dental school. Dentists with a DDS are trained to diagnose, treat, and prevent oral health issues, including diseases of the teeth, gums, and mouth. They perform procedures such as fillings, extractions, root canals, and may provide cosmetic dental services. DDS and DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine) degrees are considered equivalent in the United States, with similar training and education requirements. Dentists play a crucial role in maintaining overall health through oral care and patient education.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), and why are they important?

To thrive as a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), you need a DDS or DMD degree, strong knowledge of dental procedures, and state licensure. Familiarity with dental radiography, electronic dental records, and current dental materials is typically required. Excellent communication, dexterity, and patient empathy are crucial soft skills for patient interaction and treatment success. These competencies ensure effective, safe, and compassionate dental care in a clinical environment.

What is the difference between Dds vs Dental Hygienist?

AspectDdsDental Hygienist
Required CredentialsDental Degree (DDS), state licensureAssociate's or Bachelor's in Dental Hygiene, state licensure
Work EnvironmentDental offices, clinics, private practicesDental offices, clinics, public health settings
Job FocusDiagnosing, treating dental issues, performing proceduresCleaning teeth, patient education, preventive care
Industry UsagePrimary provider for dental treatmentsSupport role, preventive services

In summary, Dds are licensed dentists responsible for diagnosing and treating dental conditions, while dental hygienists focus on preventive care and patient education. Both roles work in dental settings but have different educational requirements and job responsibilities.

What are some common challenges dentists (DDS) face in managing patient anxiety and how can they address them?

Dentists often encounter patients who experience significant anxiety or fear about dental procedures, which can make treatment more challenging. To address this, DDS professionals use a combination of clear communication, gentle techniques, and sometimes sedation or relaxation methods. Building trust and rapport with patients is key, as is staying updated on best practices for pain management and patient comfort. Many dental offices also use calming environments and offer distractions like music or screens to help reduce anxiety during visits.
What cities in California are hiring for Dds jobs? Cities in California with the most Dds job openings:
Infographic showing various Dds job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $207,385 per year, or $99.7 per hour.

Dentist - DDS/DMD

Lumina HealthCare

Merced, CA • On-site

$182K - $260K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Dentist - DDS/DMD

Merced, CA - Merced, CA

Overview

Salary Range $182,000.00 - $260,000.00 Base+Commission/year

Description

Lumina HealthCare has an exciting opportunity for a Full or Part-Time Dentist (1-5 days/week) to work in the Merced, CA area. Qualified candidates will round at multiple facilities that are located within a designated territory. We are currently seeking Dentists (DDS or DMD) to join our progressive medical practice.

***Retention Bonus up to $3,000

Our experienced Dentists perform rounds in Skilled Nursing Facilities, providing services to residents of post-acute rehab settings, nursing homes, PACE programs, assisted living facilities, and long-term acute care hospitals.

Qualifications:

  • DDS or DMD
  • State professional license
  • Valid state driver's license

Duties:

  • Weekday commitment: No call, evenings, or weekends
  • Deliver dentistry at the bedside in post-acute care setting as well as chairside in the adult day habilitation setting.
  • Round daily at multiple facilities

Responsibilities:

  • Conduct routine, preventative dental examinations
  • Perform routine extractions and fillings
  • Perform denture fabrications, relines, and repairs
  • Provide oral hygiene instructions to patients
  • Ability to build a good rapport with patients, patient's families, facility staff, and company staff
  • Provide excellent chairside communication to enhance the patient experience

What we provide you:

  • Competitive base salary with bonus opportunity
  • Company paid Medical/Dental Assistant(s)
  • Option for free transport to facilities in a specialized company vehicle
  • Comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees working more than 4 days/week.
  • Paid sick leave and flexible vacation time
  • Full malpractice coverage.
  • Full administrative support team.
  • All equipment/supplies needed to perform the role
  • Clinical autonomy and control over the pace of your day.

Company:

Lumina HealthCare manages on-site dental and podiatric health care to skilled nursing facilities. We have a top-notch team highly experienced in delivering comprehensive mobile services wherever those with access or mobility challenges are best served. Knowledgeable of and sensitive to regulatory compliance requirements and to performance standards, we are committed to helping you achieve your goals.

Physical/Mental Demands and Work Environment:

  • Frequent standing, walking, and sitting required for extended periods of time.
  • Requires visual and hearing acuity.
  • Gross motor skills