How to Ask for a Raise (and Actually Get It) in Dentistry

If you’ve been working as a Dental Assistant, Hygienist, or Front Office professional for a while, you may have noticed job postings offering higher pay than what you’re currently earning.

That’s because salaries in dentistry have been rising due to the increasing demand for qualified professionals.

If you haven’t asked for a raise before, now is the perfect time.

Asking for a Raise Feels Intimidating—But It Shouldn’t Be

The truth is, it’s actually riskier for your employer if you leave than for you to ask for a raise. If you haven’t had a pay increase since 2020, your employer should be more concerned about losing you than you should be about requesting more.

The job market for dental professionals is competitive, and hiring new team members is difficult. If your practice isn’t willing to adjust your salary to match industry trends, there are plenty of others that will.

As you read through these steps, remember that you have the power in this conversation.

Step 1: Know Your Worth

Before making your request, do your research.

Most dental professionals have seen a $2 to $5 per hour increase in pay.

Search your city, state, and job title online to determine the average pay range.

Decide on a specific number before meeting with your employer.

By coming to the discussion prepared, you can confidently state:

“Based on my experience and the current market, I believe an appropriate salary adjustment would be [your number].”

Step 2: Show Your Value

Your employer needs to see why investing in you is a smart decision. Have a few key examples ready to demonstrate your value to the practice.

Have you helped calm anxious patients?

Have you trained new hires?

Have you taken on additional responsibilities to keep the office running smoothly?

Have you contributed to increased production or improved efficiency?

Showing how you go above and beyond makes it clear why you deserve a raise.

Step 3: Use Collaborative Language

The way you frame your request can make a big difference.

Keep the conversation team-focused rather than making it feel like a demand.

Instead of saying:

“I work hard and deserve a raise.”

Try:

“I really enjoy being a part of this team, and I want to continue contributing to the success of the practice. I’d love to discuss how we can align my compensation with industry standards.”

This approach makes it clear that you’re invested in the practice and not just seeking a higher paycheck.

Step 4: Be Comfortable with Silence

Once you make your request, pause and wait.

It’s natural to want to fill the silence, but letting your employer take a moment to process your request is important. The first person to speak usually concedes ground in a negotiation, so stay confident and let them respond first.

Step 5: Choose the Right Moment

Timing can make or break your request.

Best time to ask: After a major success—such as a high-production day, a successful treatment plan, or a positive patient experience.

Worst time to ask: On a stressful day, after a difficult patient interaction, or when production has been low.

If needed, schedule a meeting in advance and spend the day leading up to it demonstrating your value.

And If They Say No?

If your employer isn’t willing to increase your pay, you have options.

Ask them to explain why and see if they will work with you to create target you can achieve to earn that raise.

Head to DirectDental to find practices offering competitive salaries and start applying.

If your current office won’t meet the industry standard, there are plenty of others that will.

Smiles,

Holli Perez

DirectDental

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