Idaho saw the largest year-over-year decrease in the average annual salary for general dentists from 2024 to 2025, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Across the U.S., the average annual salary for general dentists decreased $4,750, falling from $196,100 in 2024 to $191,350 in 2025.
In total, there were 26 states where the average annual salary for general dentists declined.
The agency updated compensation data May 15 to reflect 2025 information, the latest available.
Here are the ten states with the largest drops in general dentist compensation using salary data from 2024 and 2025:
Note: Salary data for dentists was not available for every state in both 2024 and 2025.
Idaho
2024 average salary: $173,570
2025 average salary: $139,320
Decrease of $34,250
Connecticut
2024 average salary: $214,070
2025 average salary: $183,990
Decrease of $30,080
Texas
2024 average salary: $207,300
2025 average salary: $178,360
Decrease of $28,940
Vermont
2024 average salary: $240,740
2025 average salary: $214,130
Decrease of $26,610
Arizona
2024 average salary: $201,240
2025 average salary: $181,040
Decrease of $20,200
Iowa
2024 average salary: $216,520
2025 average salary: $198,470
Decrease of $18,050
Maryland
2024 average salary: $203,500
2025 average salary: $185,740
Decrease of $17,760
Indiana
2024 average salary: $209,500
2025 average salary: $195,140
Decrease of $14,360
California
2024 average salary: $184,350
2025 average salary: $170,690
Decrease of $13,660
Michigan
2024 average salary: $202,390
2025 average salary: $188,930
Decrease of $13,460
At the Becker's 5th Annual Future of Dentistry Roundtable, taking place September 14-15 in Chicago, dental leaders and executives will gain insights into emerging technologies, practice growth strategies and the evolving landscape of dental care delivery, with a focus on innovation, patient experience and operational excellence. Apply for complimentary registration now.