Average Pediatric Dentist Salary in Florida
Percentile Wage Estimates for Pediatric Dentists
Pediatric Dentist Salary in Florida
Pediatric dentists in Florida are a major part of children’s oral health and development. They hold expertise in the care of infants, children, adolescents, and individuals with special healthcare needs. Pediatric dentists’ salaries in Florida are high because they are trusted to create a foundation for lifelong dental well-being. The yearly average Pediatric dentists’ salaries in Florida are approximately $301,000, offering an excellent earning opportunity combined with meaningful, patient-centred work.
With a growing demand for child-focused dental services and a deep need for preventive care from an early age, Pediatric dentists enjoy both job security and the chance to make a positive impact on young lives. These specialists are trained not only to provide dental treatments but also to manage the behavioural, emotional, and developmental aspects of child patients.
Pediatric Dentist Salary in Other US States
| States | Average Monthly Salary | Average Annual Salary | Hourly Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $25,833 | $310,000 | $149/hour |
| New York | $25,167 | $302,000 | $145/hour |
| Texas | $29,083 | $349,000 | $168/hour |
Compared to other states, Pediatric dentists’ earnings in Florida are competitive, especially considering the state’s cost of living, thriving suburban regions, and steady population growth. While Texas currently offers the highest average salary among the mentioned regions, Florida is still an attractive choice due to its growing demand, lifestyle, and relatively low saturation of pediatric dental specialists in specific areas.
Pediatric Dentist Salary Trends in Florida, US
Florida offers one of the strongest earning potentials to dental professionals. Pediatric dentists’ salaries in Florida average between $301,000 and $313,000 annually. The salary range varies depending on factors such as the dentist’s level of experience, location, patient volume, and whether the practitioner owns a private clinic or is part of a dental service organization (DSO).
There are approximately 15 pediatric dentistry job openings in Florida, with 90 jobs nationwide. These numbers reflect a growing need for pediatric dental care, especially in newly developing neighborhoods and areas experiencing rapid population growth. Pediatric dentists who establish themselves early in these regions often benefit from strong word-of-mouth referrals and long-term patient relationships that span families and generations.
Pediatric Dentist's Roles and Responsibilities
Pediatric dentists are specialists with advanced training focused on the oral health of infants, children, and adolescents, including those with special healthcare needs. In Florida, they play a foundational role in early intervention, disease prevention, and patient education, often serving as a child’s first dental provider. Their approach emphasizes not only technical treatment but also behavioral guidance and emotional comfort to reduce dental anxiety.
- ●Conducting comprehensive oral assessments
- Pediatric dentists evaluate dental growth and development, detect early signs of cavities or misalignment, and assess oral habits that may impact long-term health.
- ●Providing preventive dental care
- This includes professional cleanings, fluoride treatments, sealants, and dietary counseling to reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease in children.
- ●Performing restorative and minor surgical procedures
- They treat childhood cavities with fillings or crowns, manage pulp therapy (pulpotomies), and perform extractions when necessary.
- ●Educating parents and caregivers
- Pediatric dentists provide guidance on brushing, flossing, pacifier use, thumb-sucking, and injury prevention, helping families maintain strong oral hygiene habits at home.
- ●Treating dental trauma and emergencies
- They manage chipped, fractured, or knocked-out teeth, which are particularly common among active children and young athletes.
- ●Administering sedation or general anesthesia
- In cases involving severe anxiety, special needs, or complex procedures, pediatric dentists may use conscious sedation or work in hospital settings under general anesthesia.
- ●Supporting children with special healthcare needs
- Their training equips them to modify treatment protocols to accommodate physical, developmental, or behavioral conditions, ensuring equitable care access.
Modern pediatric dental clinics in Florida often feature child-friendly environments and advanced technologies such as digital radiography, nitrous oxide delivery systems, and behavior management tools. Many practitioners work closely with schools, mobile units, and community health programs to reach underserved populations, especially in rural or low-income areas. Their work not only preserves oral health during childhood but also sets the foundation for lifelong wellness and positive dental experiences.
Pediatric Dentistry Practice Settings in Florida
Pediatric dentists in Florida serve a diverse and growing population through a variety of clinical environments. These settings allow practitioners to choose career paths that align with their interests in private practice, community service, education, or advanced care. The state’s mix of urban centers and rural regions ensures opportunities for pediatric dentists at every stage of their professional journey.
- ●Private Pediatric Dental Practices
- These are often located in suburban neighborhoods and are independently owned or operated by pediatric dentists. They offer flexibility, higher income potential, and the ability to develop long-term relationships with families.
- ●Multi-Specialty Dental Centers
- Pediatric dentists work alongside general dentists, orthodontists, and oral surgeons in integrated clinical environments. These centers allow for coordinated care and collaborative treatment planning.
- ●Public Health Clinics and Community Programs
- Serving lower-income and underserved populations, these clinics prioritize accessibility and prevention. Pediatric dentists working here may benefit from government support, student loan forgiveness, and a mission-driven career focus.
- ●Children’s Hospitals and Academic Medical Centers
- These institutions offer opportunities to work on complex cases, treat medically compromised children, and contribute to research and teaching. Pediatric dentists in these settings often hold dual roles as clinicians and educators.
- ●School-Based Dental Programs
- Operating within elementary and secondary schools, these programs focus on early screening, preventive services, and oral health education. They are especially valuable in areas with limited access to traditional dental clinics.
- ●Mobile Dental Units
- To serve rural or remote populations, pediatric dentists may practice aboard mobile units that deliver preventive and restorative care directly to communities lacking dental infrastructure. These roles are essential in improving statewide health equity.
Florida’s pediatric dentists benefit from the state’s commitment to expanding access to dental care, especially for children in underserved regions. Whether working independently or as part of a larger healthcare system, these professionals play a vital role in establishing healthy habits and preventing long-term oral health problems from an early age.
Reasons for Increasing Pediatric Dentistry Income in Florida
Several key trends are driving demand for pediatric dentists across Florida:
- ●Population Growth in Suburban Areas
- Young families relocating to suburban and developing communities require accessible pediatric dental services.
- ●Focus on Preventive Dentistry
- More parents are prioritizing dental check-ups for children as early as age one, increasing patient volume.
- ●Greater Awareness of Dental Development Issues
- Early intervention for orthodontic and structural problems is creating collaboration between pediatric dentists and specialists.
- ●Special Needs Dentistry
- Pediatric dentists trained in managing children with behavioral or developmental disorders are especially in demand.
- ●Support from Insurance Providers
- Dental plans are increasingly offering pediatric-specific coverage, driving more families to seek care.
Florida’s pediatric dental landscape is shifting to embrace holistic, preventive care. Dentists who build strong rapport with families and understand cultural sensitivity are often the most successful in creating patient trust and long-term retention.
Moreover, pediatric dentists who offer additional services, such as sedation dentistry, interceptive orthodontics, or laser procedures, can significantly increase their income and marketability. Florida’s sunny climate, family-friendly communities, and active lifestyle further enhance the appeal of building a pediatric dentistry practice here.
The blend of high demand, rewarding work, and excellent compensation makes Florida one of the best places in the U.S. to pursue a career in pediatric dentistry.
Find Qualified Pediatric Dentists in Florida with Hire Smiles
Are you a dental practice or organization seeking skilled pediatric dentists in Florida? Hire Smiles is your go-to partner for connecting with top pediatric dental talent across North America.
Our recruitment experts understand the unique qualifications, temperament, and expertise required to excel in pediatric dentistry. Whether you are launching a new children’s clinic or expanding your existing services, we’ll help you find the right candidate who fits both your clinical and cultural needs.
You can contact us at +1(888) 533-4989 or email us at info@hiresmiles.com. Let’s work together to create a brighter future for young smiles—because every child deserves compassionate care.