Sources we use
We use primary sources only: BLS OEWS wage estimates and the Occupational Outlook Handbook; state dental boards, statutes and administrative rules; the Commission on Dental Accreditation; the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations; the Dental Assisting National Board; ADA and ADEA published data; and the IRS and Social Security Administration for tax parameters. We do not use salary aggregator sites, job boards or school marketing pages as sources of fact.
How calculators are checked
Every calculator uses published, standard formulas. The code is covered by automated tests that check known answers (for example, the BLS May 2025 national median wage for dental hygienists is $98,100 a year, and a single filer earning that amount pays $12,752 of 2026 federal income tax after the $16,100 standard deduction). We show the formula next to each tool so anyone can verify the result by hand.
What we will not publish
- Affiliate links, paid school listings or lead forms for training programs.
- Salary figures from job boards or anonymous self-reports presented as fact.
- Claims we cannot support with a source.
Updates and corrections
Each page shows the date it was last updated. BLS publishes new OEWS wage estimates each spring; the IRS sets tax brackets each fall; dental boards change rules through the year. We refresh the data and re-run the tests when they do, and change page dates only when content changes. If you find an error, tell us through the contact page and we will review it and correct it.