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Independent Contractor Dentist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Contractor - Kolena

Contractor Contractor Note: This is not intended to be all inclusive or exclusive. At any time ... dental, vision, life, disability insurance and 401K; in each case in accordance with the terms of ...

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Independent Contractor Dentist information

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$59.5K

$190K

$338K

How much do independent contractor dentist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for independent contractor 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 are independent contractor dentists?

Independent contractor dentists are dental professionals who provide services to dental practices or clinics on a contractual basis rather than as traditional employees. They typically manage their own schedules, handle their own taxes, and may work at multiple locations or offices. As independent contractors, they are responsible for their own benefits, insurance, and professional expenses. This arrangement can offer greater flexibility and autonomy, but also requires careful attention to legal and financial matters.

What is the difference between Independent Contractor Dentist vs Associate Dentist?

AspectIndependent Contractor DentistAssociate Dentist
CredentialsDental Degree, State LicenseDental Degree, State License
Work EnvironmentSelf-employed, contracts with clinicsEmployed by dental practice
Employer/Industry UsageWorks independently or with multiple practicesWorks under employer’s supervision
Work FlexibilityHigh; controls schedule and servicesLimited; follows employer’s schedule

In summary, an Independent Contractor Dentist operates independently, managing their own schedule and contracts, while an Associate Dentist is employed by a dental practice with set hours and supervision. Both roles require similar credentials but differ mainly in work autonomy and employment structure.

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

To thrive as an Independent Contractor Dentist, you need a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree, state licensure, and strong clinical skills in restorative and preventive dental care. Familiarity with dental practice management software, digital imaging systems, and compliance with OSHA and HIPAA regulations is essential. Excellent patient communication, time management, and self-motivation are important soft skills for building patient trust and managing a flexible schedule. These skills and qualities are vital for delivering high-quality dental care, maintaining regulatory compliance, and running a successful independent practice.

How does being an independent contractor dentist impact daily responsibilities and work-life balance compared to being an employee dentist?

As an independent contractor dentist, you typically have more control over your schedule and patient load, allowing greater flexibility in balancing work and personal life. However, you'll also be responsible for managing your own business aspects, such as billing, taxes, and securing your own benefits, which can add to your workload. Unlike employee dentists, you may work at multiple offices or dental practices, requiring adaptability and good organizational skills. Collaboration with office staff and other dentists will depend on your specific work arrangements, but strong communication remains essential.
More about Independent Contractor Dentist jobs
What cities are hiring for Independent Contractor Dentist jobs? Cities with the most Independent Contractor Dentist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Dentist jobs? The most popular types of Dentist jobs are:
What states have the most Independent Contractor Dentist jobs? States with the most job openings for Independent Contractor Dentist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Dentist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Dentist jobs are:
Independent Contractor Dentist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Dentist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, and 19% Part Time. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $189,979 per year, or $91.3 per hour.
Staff Dentist (1099 Independent Contractor)

Staff Dentist (1099 Independent Contractor)

LIBERTY DENTAL

Tustin, CA • On-site, Remote

Other

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Staff Dentist (1099 Independent Contractor - 6-Month Assignment Fully Remote)
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced Staff Dentist (1099 Independent Contractor) to support Utilization Management (UM) and Utilization Review (UR) functions across our dental plans. This is a fully remote, non-clinical, review-focused role ideal for dentists who want to apply their clinical expertise to drive quality, compliance, and appropriate care delivery at scale.
In this role, you will perform clinical reviews of claims, prior authorizations, and referrals across Commercial, Medicare Advantage, and Medicaid lines of business, helping ensure regulatory compliance, cost-effective care, and high-quality oral health outcomes.
Assignment Details
  • Work Type: 100% Remote (U.S.-based)
  • Contract Type: 1099 Independent Contractor
  • Duration: 6-month assignment with potential for extension
  • Schedule: Flexible, based on business needs
  • Licensure: Active, unrestricted dental license in California or New Jersey is required; candidates without one of these state licenses will not be considered
Key Responsibilities
Utilization Management & Clinical Review
  • Perform timely clinical adjudication of dental claims and prior authorization requests
  • Determine medical necessity and benefit coverage using clinical expertise and plan guidelines
  • Interpret radiographs, charts, and supporting documentation to inform decisions
  • Identify inappropriate, unnecessary, or low-value services
Quality Management & Improvement
  • Participate in quality improvement initiatives, audits, and utilization analyses
  • Conduct focused chart reviews to identify utilization trends and potential quality concerns
  • Support SIU activities, including provider site reviews and corrective recommendations
  • Analyze treatment patterns and recommend improvements
Provider Engagement & Peer Review
  • Conduct peer-to-peer consultations with network providers
  • Participate in grievance, appeal, and secondary review processes
  • Collaborate with specialists or subject-matter experts as needed
Collaboration, Training & Committees
  • Participate in calibration sessions, trainings, and interrater reliability activities
  • Attend clinical and operational meetings
  • Contribute to credentialing and quality committees
  • Support resolution of provider and member concerns
Tele-Dentistry & Clinical Support
  • Provide clinical input during tele-dentistry consultations when needed
Regulatory & Subject Matter Expertise
  • Maintain expertise in dental benefit plans and Medicaid program requirements
  • Support regulatory reporting and compliance initiatives
Qualifications
  • DDS or DMD from an accredited dental school
  • Active, unrestricted dental license in good standing in a U.S. state
  • Minimum:
    • 4+ years practicing as a dentist
    • 2+ years experience with claims review, utilization management, or payer-side dentistry preferred
  • Strong knowledge of:
    • Dental coding and clinical guidelines
    • Managed care and reimbursement systems
    • Medical necessity criteria and adjudication processes
  • Ability to interpret radiographs and dental records
  • Strong analytical, decision-making, and communication skills
  • Current professional malpractice insurance required (must be maintained throughout the contract period)
Work Environment & Structure
  • Fully remote, computer-based role
  • Work is primarily sedentary and requires extended screen time
  • Flexible scheduling aligned with business needs
  • 1099 contractor position (no employee benefits)
What Makes You a Strong Fit
  • You bring a clinical lens to business decisions, balancing quality, cost, and compliance
  • You are detail-oriented and consistent in applying guidelines and policies
  • You communicate effectively in peer-to-peer provider discussions
  • You thrive in a collaborative, healthcare environment
Why Join
  • Fully remote opportunity with flexible scheduling
  • Apply your clinical expertise beyond the operatory
  • Influence care quality and outcomes at a population level
  • Work on meaningful, mission-driven initiatives
  • Opportunity for contract extension based on performance and business needs
How to Apply
Submit your resume, licensure details, and proof of current malpractice insurance to be considered for this opportunity.
Liberty Dental Plan commits to maintaining a work environment that acknowledges all individuals within the workplace and will continue to engage in practices that are inclusive of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. We strive to have every person within the organization have a sense of belonging while encouraging individuals to unleash their full potential. Liberty will leverage diverse perspectives in building high performance teams and organizational culture.
Liberty Dental Plan will continue to strengthen and develop external partnerships by providing equitable health care access and improving population health in the communities we serve.
We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment, recruitment, promotions, and transfers, as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements.
Sponsorship and Relocation Specifications
Liberty Dental Plan is an Equal Opportunity Employer / VETS / Disabled.
No relocation assistance or sponsorship available at this time.

Apply