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$10

$45

$142

How much do dental instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for dental instructor in the United States is $45.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $37.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Dental Instructors face when balancing teaching responsibilities with clinical supervision?

Dental Instructors often juggle multiple responsibilities, including preparing lectures, supervising students in clinical settings, and staying current with advancements in dental techniques. One common challenge is ensuring each student receives personalized feedback and guidance during clinical practice while managing classroom activities and administrative tasks. Effective time management and strong communication skills are essential, as instructors must coordinate with other faculty and staff to maintain a supportive learning environment. Additionally, staying up-to-date with accreditation standards and integrating new technologies into the curriculum can add to the complexity of the role.

What is the highest paid job in dentistry?

In dentistry, oral and maxillofacial surgeons are typically the highest paid professionals, often earning the highest salaries due to their specialized surgical skills and extensive training. They perform complex procedures such as jaw surgeries and facial reconstructions, usually requiring additional residencies and certifications. Salaries for this role can significantly exceed those of general dentists or other dental specialists.

What Does a Dental Instructor Do?

The responsibilities of a dental instructor include developing lesson plans to teach students in a course about the prevention, examination, and treatment of diseases of teeth and the mouth. This can consist of dental equipment preparation, materials for restoring and impressions, proper disposal requirements for contaminated waste, dental radiography, and how to maintain dental equipment. There are also opportunities available as a dental assistant instructor, who teaches administrative skills, or a hygiene instructor, whose duties are to demonstrate hygiene best practices and techniques in classroom and clinical settings. A dental instructor is expected to stay current on industry practices and discoveries through professional and occupational development.

Why do people quit dental assisting?

Dental assistants may leave the profession due to factors such as job stress, physical demands, limited advancement opportunities, or low pay. High workload, repetitive tasks, and exposure to infectious materials can also contribute to job dissatisfaction and turnover.

What are dental instructors?

Dental instructors are professionals who teach students in dental schools or programs, providing both theoretical knowledge and practical training in dentistry. They guide future dentists or dental hygienists through classroom instruction, laboratory exercises, and clinical practice. Dental instructors often assess student performance, develop course materials, and stay updated on advancements in dental science. Their role is crucial in ensuring graduates are competent, ethical, and ready for professional practice.

What is the difference between Dental Instructor vs Dental Hygienist?

AspectDental InstructorDental Hygienist
Required CredentialsDental degree, teaching certification (if applicable)Dental hygiene license, associate or bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene
Work EnvironmentEducational institutions, dental schoolsDental offices, clinics, community health settings
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, dental schoolsPrivate practices, clinics, public health agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Dental Instructors primarily teach and train students in dental schools, requiring a dental degree and sometimes teaching credentials. Dental Hygienists focus on patient care, performing cleanings and preventive treatments, with licensing in dental hygiene. While both roles are within the dental industry, they differ in work environment and responsibilities, making this comparison useful for those exploring careers in dentistry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Dental Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Dental Instructor, you need in-depth dental knowledge, clinical expertise, and a relevant dental degree (such as DDS or DMD), often paired with teaching credentials. Familiarity with dental simulation technology, digital radiography, and educational management systems is commonly required. Strong communication, patience, and mentoring abilities distinguish outstanding instructors by fostering an effective learning environment. These skills ensure that students receive high-quality education, hands-on training, and professional guidance vital for their future dental careers.

How much do dental hygiene instructors make?

Dental hygiene instructors typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000, with salaries varying based on experience, education level, and location. They often work in educational institutions, teaching dental hygiene students and maintaining clinical skills.

How to become a dental instructor?

To become a dental instructor, one typically needs to earn a dental degree (DDS or DMD), gain clinical experience, and obtain licensure. Additional qualifications often include a master's or doctoral degree in education or a related field, along with teaching experience and strong communication skills. Some institutions may require research or publication credentials as well.
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Dental Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dental Instructor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 11% Full Time, 88% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,435 per year, or $45.9 per hour.
Dental Instructor, Tenure Track, Search Extended

Dental Instructor, Tenure Track, Search Extended

Illinois Valley Community College

Oglesby, IL • On-site

$44K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Faculty Full-Time
Date Posted:
3/11/2026
Location:
Illinois Valley Community College
Date Available:
04/01/2026
Closing Date:
pending Board approval
Description: Dental Instructor, Tenure Track
Salary Range: $44,790 to $70,830 per AFT 1810 CBA Salary Schedule; excellent benefits package, view here: Benefits At A Glance - Faculty
Position Summary: Dental Faculty are enthusiastic and flexible. They will teach and assesses student learning in both the Dental Assisting and Dental Hygiene programs. Dental faculty will have teaching assignments consistent with the regulations set forth by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). They are responsible for both ensuring that clinical and radiographic services delivered by students meet current standards for dental hygiene care and for the instruction and evaluation of students during their performances of those services. Dental faculty will be responsible for the assessment, development, coordination, and evaluation of the Dental curriculum to meet established standards of the Commission on Dental Accreditation. In collaboration with colleagues, the instructor will strive for ongoing curriculum improvement within the context of IVCC's general education philosophy and facilitate student learning outside of the classroom through participation in student activities, college, and community events.
Required Qualifications:
  • Minimum of a Bachelor's Degree in Dental Hygiene, Education, or a related field.
  • Current Dental Hygienist License from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation OR a dentist who is a graduate of a program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation.
  • Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) Certification through The Dental Assisting National Board within 3 months of hire.
  • Current BLS Provider CPR Certification.
  • Minimum of two years of field experience as a Dental Hygienist.
  • Minimum of two years of field experience as a Dental Assistant.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Graduate of a CODA Accredited Dental Assisting Program.
  • Background in current educational methodology, theory and practice.

Working Conditions: Classroom and Dental Lab Settings
Application Procedure: Complete IVCC's online application by clicking on the "Apply" link shown above and include a cover letter specifically addressing how your qualifications meet the duties and responsibilities outlined in the job description, resume, and applicable (unofficial) transcripts. A full job description is attached. Applications are accepted until the position is filled though priority will be given to applications received through Sunday, April 5, 2026. Employment is contingent upon criminal background check; official transcripts required upon hire; employment sponsorship is not available. AA/EOE
Attachment(s):
  • Dental Instructor, Tenure Track.docx

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