Average Pediatric Dentist Salary in Texas
Percentile Wage Estimates for Pediatric Dentist
Pediatric Dentist Salary in Texas
Pediatric dentistry is a very focused and specialized field that plays a very important role in shaping lifelong oral health habits in children. In Texas, pediatric dentists are not only highly respected professionals but also enjoy competitive salary packages for their experience and skill. As per the recent studies and published statistics, the annual average pediatric dentist salary in Texas is around $343,000. The high potential of earnings pediatric dentists enjoy in the state is a reflection of the demand for specialized dental care for children and also adolescents across both urban and rural areas of the state.
There are approximately 11 active job opportunities in Texas and around 90 across the United States. Pediatric dentistry remains a very concentrated but highly impactful profession. Popular cities in the state, like Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio, are centers for major pediatric dental practices. The rural areas are actively seeking specialists to improve their oral healthcare industry and access to better oral care for children. The steady growth of Texas’s population and the increased emphasis on preventive care for children further fuel demand in this specialty.
Pediatric Dentist Salary in Other USA 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 |
| Florida | $25,083 | $301,000 | $145/hour |
Among the listed states, Texas offers one of the highest average annual salaries for pediatric dentists. The state has a combination of high demand, low state income tax, and lower overall cost of living, which makes it one of the best destinations for dental specialists to practice and grow.
Pediatric Dentists' Salary Trends in Texas, US
As of January 1, 2025, the average Pediatric Dentist in Texas is around $349,000, with a typical range of $234K–$465K. Earnings generally climb significantly with experience—starting near $234K then rising to $465K+ for seasoned professionals. The trend shows steady growth.
Pediatric Dentist's Roles and Responsibilities
Pediatric dentists are specialists dedicated to managing the oral health of infants, children, adolescents, and individuals with special healthcare needs. Their responsibilities go beyond clinical care to include behavior guidance, early diagnosis, and parental education, creating a foundation for lifelong oral health.
- ●Conducting Comprehensive Oral Examinations
- Pediatric dentists perform diagnostic evaluations to detect early signs of dental decay, malocclusion, developmental anomalies, and oral pathologies in young patients.
- ●Delivering Preventive Dental Care
- They apply fluoride treatments, dental sealants, and conduct professional cleanings to help prevent cavities and other common dental issues in children.
- ●Providing Restorative Treatments
- For decayed or damaged teeth, pediatric dentists perform fillings, crowns (often stainless steel for baby teeth), pulpotomies (baby root canals), and extractions when necessary.
- ●Managing Dental Emergencies
- They are trained to treat traumatic dental injuries such as fractured, displaced, or avulsed teeth, common among active children and adolescents.
- ●Administering Sedation and Anesthesia
- For highly anxious or special needs patients, pediatric dentists may use nitrous oxide sedation, oral sedation, or general anesthesia in coordination with anesthesiologists.
- ●Educating Parents and Caregivers
- Pediatric dentists counsel families on brushing, flossing, diet, teething, and thumb-sucking habits, with a strong emphasis on early intervention and preventive care.
- ●Monitoring Growth and Development
- They track the eruption of teeth, jaw development, and bite alignment, referring to orthodontists when early corrective action is beneficial.
Pediatric dentists in Texas often serve as the first dental contact for children, making their role crucial in shaping positive dental experiences. Their ability to connect with young patients through age-appropriate communication and behavioral techniques distinguishes them as vital contributors to pediatric health.
Pediatric Dentists' Work Settings and Professional Lifestyle
Pediatric dentists in Texas have the opportunity to work in a wide range of settings, including private pediatric dental clinics, multi-specialty practices, children’s hospitals, community health centers, and academic institutions. These diverse environments allow practitioners to tailor their careers to match their professional goals and preferred lifestyles.
Many practices offer fixed schedules, competitive benefits, and access to continuing education, contributing to both career growth and work-life balance. The role also emphasizes building strong relationships with both young patients and their families, making the profession emotionally fulfilling and socially impactful. Additionally, Texas’s low cost of living and absence of state income tax significantly enhance disposable income for pediatric dentists, supporting a more comfortable lifestyle, whether practicing in a major metropolitan area or a rural community.
Reasons for Increasing Pediatric Dentists' Income in Texas
Here are some reasons that make Texas one of the best destinations for dental professionals, especially pediatric dentists-
- ●High Birth Rate and Growing Families
- Texas has been continuously ranked among the top U.S. states for birth rates. This implies that there is always a steady influx of young patients who need specialized oral care.
- ●Preventive Dental Care Programs
- With increased public and private initiatives around early childhood dental health, parents are more proactive in seeking pediatric dental services.
- ●Access to Underserved Communities
- Many parts of Texas, especially in rural and semi-urban regions, lack sufficient pediatric specialists, providing ample opportunity for practice expansion.
- ●Cultural Emphasis on Health
- Texas’s diverse and growing population is becoming increasingly aware of the importance of preventive healthcare, including pediatric dentistry.
Texas stands out as one of the most appealing states for pediatric dentists due to its strong economy, expanding healthcare infrastructure, and high-quality living standards. The ability to choose between bustling metropolitan cities and peaceful small towns allows dentists to find a niche that fits their personal and professional needs.
Trends and Future Outlook for Pediatric Dentists in Texas
The pediatric dentists’ salary in Texas, along with the demand, is expected to grow steadily due to:
- ●Expanding Insurance Coverage
- Both public programs like CHIP and private insurers are broadening dental coverage for children.
- ●Technological Advancements
- Innovations like laser dentistry and digital radiography are improving care delivery and making procedures more comfortable for children.
- ●Increased Public Awareness
- Campaigns and school-based dental health programs are driving early diagnosis and intervention.
- ●More Dental Schools and Graduates
- With more dental institutions in Texas expanding their pediatric programs, the talent pool is expected to grow, albeit still limited compared to demand.
Find the Best Pediatric Dentists or Opportunities in Texas with Hire Smiles
Whether you’re seeking to hire skilled pediatric dentists in Texas or looking to find your next opportunity in this rewarding field, Hire Smiles is your ideal partner. As North America’s premier dental recruitment platform, we connect top-tier talent with practices that value clinical excellence and compassionate care.
Our strategic approach ensures that every match is tailored for long-term success, whether you’re an established practice expanding pediatric services or a newly trained dentist searching for the right opportunity. Reach out to us at +1 (888) 533-4989 or email info@hiresmiles.com to learn more.
Let Hire Smiles help you make the right connection, because every child’s smile deserves the best care.