General Dentistry vs Internal Medicine: Salary Comparison (2026)
Compare General Dentistry and Internal Medicine compensation across salary, lifestyle, and career metrics. See how General Dentist salaries stack up against Internist pay using verified physician data on SalaryDr.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | General Dentistry | Internal Medicine |
|---|---|---|
| Training Length | 4-year dental school (DMD/DDS) | 3-year residency |
| Practitioner Title | General Dentist | Internist |
| Live Salary Data | View General Dentistry salary → | View Internal Medicine salary → |
| Lifestyle Rating | See details below | See details below |
Salary figures are updated in real-time on each specialty page from verified physician submissions.
Key Differences
Training Path
- General Dentistry: 4-year dental school (DMD/DDS)
- Internal Medicine: 3-year residency
Practice Setting
Both General Dentistry and Internal Medicine offer diverse practice settings including academic medical centers, private practice, and hospital employment. Compensation varies significantly by setting.
Lifestyle & Work-Life Balance
General Dentistry
Excellent lifestyle with ownership flexibility and predictable hours.
Internal Medicine
Variable depending on practice type. Outpatient tends to be more predictable; hospitalists work shift-based schedules.
Career Considerations
Job Market Outlook
Both General Dentistry and Internal Medicine continue to see strong demand driven by an aging population and expanding healthcare access. Geographic demand varies; rural and underserved areas often offer higher compensation to attract specialists.
Compensation Growth Trajectory
Physician salaries in both specialties typically increase with experience, with the largest jumps in the first 5-10 years post-training. Partnership or ownership in private practice can meaningfully accelerate earnings.
Subspecialization Opportunities
Both specialties offer fellowship pathways that can further differentiate earning potential and lifestyle. Compare detailed salary data for each specialty to see how subspecialties affect pay.
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