Explore Careers

Dentists

Explore Careers

Dentists

Health Science
Enlisted Role

Service Branches with this Role

  • Army logo
  • Navy logo
  • Air Force logo
  • Space Force logo

What do Dentists do in the Military?

Military dentists take care of the dental needs of service members and their families.

Where do Dentists work?

Dentists work in hospitals and dental clinics on land and aboard ships.

How much do they make?

Median Military Salary

This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.


Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.

$141,527

Military Salary Range

This is the range based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.


Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.

$31,037 - $358,842

How Military Pay is More Than Just a Salary

Base pay is the standard income you'll earn as a service member, providing a stable foundation to start achieving your financial goals.

  • Set based on rank and years of service.
  • Paid every month.

Allowances are additional payments to help cover living expenses like housing and food.

  • Tax-free payments.
  • Varies by location and family status.

Special pay provides extra compensation for unique skills, hazardous duties, or challenging assignments.

  • Based on specialized roles.
  • Varies by position and duty.

What training do Dentists gain in the Military?

Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving. Dentists have a doctorate degree in dental medicine or dental surgery. Dentists who participate in military-sponsored residency programs receive renowned education. All dentists in the Military gain exposure to nearly every major facet of dentistry in a wide range of healthcare environments. Like other healthcare officers, they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, military structure and etiquette, traditions, the military health system, and leadership development.

Military Training for Enlisted Service members

All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training.

What skills help Dentists succeed?

  • Desire to help others
  • Good eye-hand coordination

What are possible career paths after the Military?

  • Dental Laboratory Technicians
  • Dental Hygienists
  • Prosthodontists
  • Orthodontists
  • Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
  • Dentists, General
  • Orthopedic Surgeons, Except Pediatric

Interested? Take Your Next Step!