The question of whether dentists get paid more than doctors is a complex one, with no easy answer. There are a number of factors that can affect a dentist's or doctor's salary, including their specialty, experience, location, and practice setting. In general, however, dentists and doctors earn similar salaries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for dentists was $164,090 in May 2021, while the median annual salary for physicians and surgeons was $208,000.
There are a number of reasons why dentists and doctors earn similar salaries. First, both professions require a high level of education and training. Dentists must complete four years of dental school, while doctors must complete four years of medical school plus three to seven years of residency training. Second, both professions involve a great deal of responsibility. Dentists are responsible for the oral health of their patients, while doctors are responsible for the overall health of their patients. Third, both professions are in high demand. There is a shortage of both dentists and doctors in many parts of the country.