How much does a dentist make during an AEGD or GPR residency?

Dental residents in AEGD and GPR programs typically earn between $45,000 to $65,000 per year. This is notably less than what practicing general dentists make, as these are educational positions focused on advanced training rather than pure clinical practice. The best way to look at compensation during a dental residency is to acknowledge that you’re not getting paid to work, but you’re getting paid to learn.

Salary for dental residences varies based on several key factors:

Geographic location plays a significant role – residents in major metropolitan areas or regions with a higher cost of living often receive higher stipends. For instance, a GPR resident in New York City might earn closer to the upper end of that range compared to someone in a smaller city.

The type of institution also affects compensation. Hospital-based programs, particularly those affiliated with large medical centers, tend to offer higher salaries than university-based programs. Furthermore, Veterans Affairs (VA) residency programs often provide more competitive stipends and better benefits packages compared to other institutions.

Beyond the base salary, residents typically receive benefits that add significant value to their compensation package. These usually include health insurance, malpractice insurance, and even paid time off. Some programs also offer additional benefits like meal allowances, parking, or educational stipends for conferences and continuing education.

It’s worth noting that while this salary might seem modest compared to practicing dentists (who often earn $150,000-250,000 or more in their first year), the additional training received during residency can lead to higher earning potential in the future. The advanced skills and hospital privileges gained during these programs can open doors to more lucrative practice opportunities or specialties.