Many people are interested in this topic involving orthodontists’ salary, especially if they are considering becoming an orthodontist. Orthodontists are dental specialists who straighten teeth and jaws with braces, aligners, and other orthodontic treatments.
The salary an orthodontist earns can depend on factors such as experience, location, and type of practice. In general, orthodontists can earn good incomes working in the USA because there is a high demand for those skills. Many people wonder how much orthodontists make on average each year.
What Does an Orthodontist Do?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on correcting teeth and jaw issues. They provide procedures such as braces, clear aligners, retainers, and jaw surgery to align teeth and improve smiles. Orthodontists also diagnose bite problems and provide treatment plans to assist with long-term care.
Due to their extensive training and mastery of skills, their qualifications and duties are valuable. This is why orthodontists’ salary reflects their responsibility and their expertise. The more proficiency and experience orthodontists have, the more profitable their earnings can be, making this career choice financially gratifying in addition to professionally.
What is the average orthodontist's salary in the USA?
Orthodontists are dental professionals who make more money than general dentists due to the training and abilities that the orthodontist’s job requires. The orthodontist’s annual salary will vary depending on level of experience, the area of employment, and the type of practice used by the orthodontist.
In the United States, orthodontists’ salaries are estimated at an annual pay of about $228,780. Entry-level orthodontists may expect a starting salary of around $150,000 a year, while experienced orthodontists working in areas that have high demand may receive $350,000 or above.
On the whole, orthodontists’ annual salary in the USA is considered to be very good in comparison to many other dental professions. The reason for this is that orthodontists typically go through years of additional training after dental school to manage complex dental treatments.
Related Article: Where Are Orthodontists in High Demand?
What Are The Factors That Affect How Much Orthodontists Make?
Multiple aspects are important in determining the salary of an orthodontist. Here are the primary details:
- Experience / Years of Practice: An orthodontist’s earnings are based on their experience level. A less experienced orthodontist will earn less than one with more experience and advanced clinical knowledge.
- Location: The location of the orthodontist determines their earnings potential. Urban areas or states where there are more orthodontists and/or less patient competition, leading to a higher demand for their services, typically earn more than rural locations.
- Type of Practice: An orthodontist working in a private practice will typically earn more than a group practice or a provider working in a dental hospital setting. In addition, many orthodontists in private practice get bonuses or profit sharing in their role.
- Education or Practice: A licensed orthodontist may have additional education or certifications that allow them to charge a higher fee schedule. Some examples of this may be provided if an orthodontist completed a supplemental residency or coursework in cosmetic or pediatric orthodontics.
Overall, these factors play a major role in determining how much orthodontists make.
How Do Orthodontists' Salary Change With Experience?
Here is an easy-to-follow overview of how orthodontists’ salaries progress as they gain experience:
- Entry-Level Orthodontists: Orthodontists who are just starting their careers after training. The average salary for an entry-level orthodontist is approximately $150,000 per year.
- Mid-Career Orthodontists: Orthodontists with 5 to 10 years of experience. The average salary for mid-career orthodontists comes to approximately $200,000 – $275,000. As they grow, their reputation and practice base will contribute to their compensation.
- Senior Orthodontists: Over 10–15 years of experience. Can earn up to $350,000 or more annually. Often run private practices or have specialized skills.
Related Article – Tips on How to Grow Your Orthodontic Practice
Why Do Orthodontists Earn More Than Other Dental Specialties?
If you’re curious about how much orthodontists make when compared to other types of dental professionals, there is often a large variation.
Dental Specialty | Average Annual Salary (USA) |
General Dentist | $160,000 – $180,000 |
Periodontist | $200,000 – $240,000 |
Endodontist | $220,000 – $260,000 |
Orthodontist | $228,000 – $350,000 |
What Are the Additional Income Sources for Orthodontists?
Here are some ways orthodontists can increase their earnings:
- Independent Practice: Generate income via bonuses, patient fees, and profits.
- Consulting, Teaching, or Research: Collaborate with dental colleges or research studies for additional income.
- Part-Time in Clinics and Cosmetic Procedures: Provide services such as teeth whitening, clear aligners, and/or other cosmetic procedures.
These additional income-earning opportunities can greatly enhance an orthodontist’s annual compensation over and above their salary earned in a standard office.
Final Verdict Over Salary Of an Orthodontist
In short, how much orthodontists earn is a function of their experience, the location of their practice, and the type of practice they work in.
There are also many opportunities for orthodontists to make additional income working in private practice, teaching, or providing related cosmetic procedures. Orthodontics is a highly specialized and in-demand field of study or practice, which makes it very rewarding from both a professional and financial perspective.
FAQs About How Much Do Orthodontists Make
Q1. What is the average orthodontist’s salary in the USA?
The average orthodontist’s annual salary is around $228,780, but it can range from $150,000 to $350,000.
Q2. How much do entry-level orthodontists make?
The entry-level orthodontists usually earn about $150,000 per year.
Q3. Do orthodontists earn more than general dentists?
Yes, due to their specialized training, orthodontists often earn more than general dentists.
Q4. What factors affect how much orthodontists make?
Experience, location, type of practice, and additional qualifications influence their income.
Q5. Can orthodontists earn extra income?
Yes, through private practice profits, teaching, consulting, or cosmetic procedures.
Q6. How much do senior orthodontists make?
Senior orthodontists with over 10–15 years of experience can earn up to $350,000 or more annually.
Q7. Does location impact an orthodontist’s salary in the USA?
Yes, orthodontists in high-demand cities earn more than those in rural areas.
