Dentists And Paying Dental Associates

Our survey found the average annual compensation for a dental associate to be about $160,000.

Of the dentists in our survey with an associate, one in three pay a salary. The other two-thirds pay a percentage, with the average associate payment being 33% of collections.

When it comes to paying associates a minimum guarantee, 35% do, while 65% do not.

"Like the rest of the world, some are awesome, and some are dishonest, and some should not be practicing," advised a pediatric dentist. "Good luck!"

“I'm looking," said one dentist. "However, with the poor economy, I'm glad I don't have one."

Here are some more dentist comments:

• “Like herding cats!” (Florida dentist)
• "Associates are good and bad. Finding someone who wants to work and remain in the practice has been difficult.” (Tennessee dentist)
• “I would love to be able to afford one.” (New Jersey dentist)
• “If you want a successful associate, you have to have systems and demand in place that will allow them to make a handsome salary, or you will be replacing them often.” (California dentist)
• “Soon to come – freedom.” (Tennessee dentist)
• “It is most critical to get someone who shares your philosophy and you have a written agreement to cover contingencies, both good and bad.” (Texas dentist)

Read more: Dentists and Dental Associates: Compensation and Payment