Average Pediatric Dentist Salary in the United States
Percentile Wage Estimates for Pediatric Dentists
Pediatric Dentist Salary in the United States
Pediatric dentists are vital members of the dental profession, providing specialized care that focuses on the unique oral health needs of infants, children, adolescents, and patients with special healthcare needs. Their expertise in preventive and restorative care, combined with a focus on patient education and behavior management, makes pediatric dentists highly sought-after professionals across the United States.
Recent salary data shows that pediatric dentists in the U.S. earn an average annual salary of approximately $336,000, reflecting their advanced training and the critical role they play in ensuring lifelong oral health for young patients. Depending on factors such as location, practice type, patient volume, and years of experience, pediatric dentists typically earn between $225,000 and $447,000 per year, with many earning well above this range in high-demand areas or well-established practices.
There are currently more than 2,800 job openings for pediatric dentists nationwide, highlighting the strong need for qualified specialists dedicated to providing comprehensive dental care for children.
Pediatric Dentist Salary in 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 |
| Florida | $25,083 | $301,000 | $145/hour |
| Texas | $29,083 | $349,000 | $168/hour |
Demand for licensed pediatric dentists remains steady across both urban and rural communities, fueled by increased awareness of the importance of early oral healthcare, rising birth rates in certain regions, and growing demand for gentle, specialized dental care for children and teens.
Dental Hygienist Salary Trends in California, USA
The average pediatric dentist’s salary in the U.S. currently ranges between $225,000 and $447,000, with many experienced practitioners earning $447,000 or more annually, particularly in busy practices or areas with a high demand for children’s dental services. As awareness grows around the importance of early and preventive dental care, the need for pediatric dentists and their earning potential continues to increase nationwide.
Pediatric Dentist’s Roles and Responsibilities
Pediatric dentists are specially trained to manage the oral health needs of children from infancy through adolescence, creating positive dental experiences and setting the foundation for a lifetime of good oral health.
- ●Conducting Infant and Child Oral Health Exams
- Pediatric dentists provide comprehensive dental exams for infants and children, monitoring growth and development while identifying potential issues early.
- ●Performing Preventive and Restorative Treatments
- They deliver preventive services like cleanings, fluoride treatments, and sealants, as well as restorative procedures such as fillings and crowns specifically adapted for pediatric patients.
- ●Managing Dental Emergencies and Trauma
- Pediatric dentists handle dental injuries, infections, and other urgent dental needs common in childhood.
- ●Providing Guidance on Habits and Oral Development
- They counsel families on habits such as thumb sucking, pacifier use, and teething, and offer early orthodontic evaluations to address bite alignment or spacing concerns.
- ●Educating Patients and Parents
- A key role is educating both children and their caregivers about proper brushing, flossing, diet, and routine checkups to prevent decay and other oral health issues.
- ●Special Needs and Behavior Management
- Pediatric dentists are trained in behavior management techniques and are experienced in treating children with special healthcare needs, ensuring comfort and safety during treatment.
- ●Using Child-Friendly Technology and Techniques
- They incorporate child-friendly tools, sedation options, and comforting office environments to make dental visits positive and stress-free.
- ●Managing a Pediatric Dental Practice
- In private or group practices, pediatric dentists oversee staff training, scheduling, compliance with child safety protocols, and practice operations to ensure high-quality care.
Pediatric Dentist - Scope of Practice and Work Settings
Pediatric dentists in the United States work in a variety of settings, including private pediatric dental offices, multi-specialty dental clinics, community health centers, hospitals, and academic institutions. Many pediatric dentists choose to own their practices or work in partnership with other specialists, providing comprehensive care in environments designed specifically for children.
Some pediatric dentists balance clinical care with teaching at dental schools or conducting research focused on pediatric oral health and preventive strategies. The flexibility to work full-time or part-time allows many pediatric dentists to enjoy a healthy work-life balance, an important factor when balancing the demands of caring for young patients.
Practices in urban or suburban areas often benefit from higher patient volumes and a steady flow of new families, while those practicing in rural or underserved regions may qualify for state or federal incentive programs aimed at expanding access to pediatric dental care.
Key Factors Driving Pediatric Dentist Salaries In The United States
Greater awareness among parents about the importance of early dental visits and preventive care fuels a steady and growing demand for pediatric dental services. Parents are increasingly proactive about their children’s oral health, leading to more routine checkups, earlier detection of dental issues, and consistent follow-up visits.
- ●Specialized Training and Skillset
- Pediatric dentists complete advanced training that equips them to handle the unique needs of infants, children, adolescents, and patients with special healthcare needs. Their expertise in behavior management, safe sedation techniques, and treatment of medically complex cases sets them apart and adds significant value to their services.
- ●Practice Ownership Opportunities
- Many pediatric dentists choose to own their clinics or partner in group practices tailored to young patients, giving them greater control over the patient experience, office atmosphere, and service offerings. This autonomy allows them to expand their reach in their communities and increase income potential through high-volume, family-focused care.
- ●Growing Focus on Preventive Dentistry
- There is an increasing emphasis on preventing tooth decay, early orthodontic intervention, and healthy oral habits from a young age. This focus translates into steady patient flow for pediatric dentists, as parents seek regular cleanings, sealants, fluoride treatments, and early guidance for developing mouths.
- ●Community Programs and Insurance Coverage
- Expanded coverage through public health programs like Medicaid and CHIP, along with broader private insurance options, makes pediatric dental services accessible to more families. Community outreach initiatives and school-based programs also help drive patient awareness and encourage early, routine dental care.
Build Your Dream Dental Team with America’s Top Pediatric Dentists
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