Orthodontist Salary in Canada
Orthodontists are highly trained dental specialists focused on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. By using a range of appliances such as braces, aligners, and retainers, they improve both bite functionality and the overall appearance of a patient’s smile. As Canadians become increasingly conscious of their oral health—and as more adults seek cosmetic dental treatments—orthodontics has emerged as one of the fastest-growing and most in-demand dental specialties in the country.
These professionals commonly work in private orthodontic practices, multi-provider dental centers, or family and pediatric dental clinics. Due to their advanced skillset, extended treatment timelines, and the high value of each case, orthodontists are well-positioned for strong earning potential. Provinces with higher population density and robust dental infrastructure—such as British Columbia and Ontario—tend to offer especially favorable conditions for career growth.
Orthodontist Salary Comparison Across Canadian Provinces
| States | Average Monthly Salary | Average Annual Salary | Hourly Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alberta | $13,167 | $158,000 | $76/hour |
| British Columbia | $16,083 | $193,000 | $93/hour |
| Ontario | $10,417 | $125,000 | $60/hour |
As of 2025, orthodontists’ earnings in Canada are strong. In British Columbia, the average annual income for an orthodontist is approximately CAD $193,000, while in Ontario it stands at around CAD $125,000 per year. These figures represent full-time base salaries and do not include potential income from ownership in a practice, performance incentives, or profit-sharing structures. Particularly in larger urban markets or among orthodontists who manage multiple locations, total annual compensation can significantly exceed these averages.
Roles and Responsibilities of an Orthodontist in Canada
- ●Treatment Planning and Diagnosis
- Orthodontists assess patients using clinical evaluations, radiographs, digital scans, and facial analysis to determine malocclusions and skeletal discrepancies. They create customized treatment plans aimed at improving bite function, facial symmetry, and long-term oral health outcomes.
- ●Appliance-Based Therapy
- They are experts in applying and managing orthodontic appliances such as metal or ceramic braces, lingual systems, clear aligners, palatal expanders, and functional appliances for children. Treatment often spans 12–24 months and involves regular follow-ups to monitor progress.
- ●Patient Education and Progress Monitoring
- Orthodontists guide patients through the entire treatment process, explaining appliance use, care routines, and what to expect during each phase. They also adjust appliances periodically and monitor alignment improvements, ensuring that each case meets functional and aesthetic goals.
- ●Collaboration with Other Specialists
- In multidisciplinary cases, orthodontists work closely with oral surgeons, prosthodontists, pediatric dentists, and periodontists to coordinate treatment plans, especially in surgical orthodontics, cleft palate cases, or pre-restorative alignment treatments.
- ●Retention and Post-Treatment Care
- After active treatment, orthodontists fabricate and monitor retainers to prevent relapse. They track long-term results to maintain the stability of alignment and ensure patient satisfaction over time.
Common Work Settings for Orthodontists in Canada
- ●Private Orthodontic Practices
- The majority of orthodontists in Canada operate in private specialty clinics or boutique orthodontic centers. These settings allow for complete control over treatment protocols, scheduling, and patient care. High patient retention, predictable treatment timelines, and aesthetic-driven demand make private practice one of the most financially rewarding models for orthodontists. Many also transition into ownership or open multi-location practices over time.
- ●Group Dental Practices and DSOs
- Dental Service Organizations (DSOs) and large group practices often employ orthodontists alongside general dentists and other specialists. These collaborative environments offer access to a steady stream of internal referrals, streamlined administrative support, and established patient bases. Compensation is often a combination of base orthodontists’ salaries in Canada and production-based bonuses, making them ideal for early-career orthodontists looking to grow their caseloads.
- ●Hospital and Public Health Clinics
- While less common, some orthodontists are employed by children’s hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or government-supported clinics to treat patients with cleft palates, craniofacial disorders, or developmental needs. These roles offer stable income, benefits, and opportunities to contribute to specialized care in underserved or at-risk populations.
Salary Trends and Market Outlook for Orthodontists in Canada
- ●Expanding Aesthetic Demand
- A growing number of adults are seeking orthodontic treatment for cosmetic improvements, driven by clear aligner technologies and increased awareness. This trend is expanding the traditional adolescent patient base, leading to higher case volume and earning potential.
- ●Regional Disparities in Access
- While urban markets are saturated with competition, rural and underserved communities across Canada still face shortages of orthodontic services. Specialists willing to relocate to these areas often benefit from higher fees, less competition, and government-supported incentive programs.
- ●Technological Integration
- Orthodontists who adopt AI-based treatment planning, 3D scanning, and remote monitoring tools can streamline workflows and improve case outcomes. This tech-savvy approach often leads to greater patient satisfaction and increased revenue per case.
- ●Group Practice Growth
- The rise of corporate dentistry and DSOs is providing more employment opportunities for new orthodontists, especially those who prefer a structured work environment without the overhead of private practice ownership.
- ●Work-Life Balance
- Unlike emergency-based specialties, orthodontists typically enjoy a predictable schedule, minimal on-call demands, and long-term patient relationships. These factors make the field attractive for those seeking both professional fulfillment and work-life balance.
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