Average Periodontist Salary in the United States
Percentile Wage Estimates for Periodontists
Periodontist Salary in the United States
Periodontists are highly trained dental specialists who focus on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease and other conditions affecting the supporting structures of the teeth. Their advanced expertise in surgical and non-surgical periodontal therapies, dental implants, and regenerative procedures makes them critical members of the dental profession and places them among the top earners in the field.
Recent national figures show that periodontists’ earnings in the U.S. are within an average annual salary range of approximately $355,000, reflecting the specialized care they provide and the growing demand for advanced periodontal treatments. Depending on location, practice type, patient volume, and years of experience, periodontists typically earn between $238,000 and $473,000 per year, with many reaching higher income levels in busy practices or metropolitan areas with strong patient demand.
There are currently more than 1,500 job openings for periodontists nationwide, highlighting the ongoing need for specialists who help patients maintain healthy gums, preserve natural teeth, and restore smiles through complex surgical procedures.
Periodontist Salary in the US States
| States | Average Monthly Salary | Average Annual Salary | Hourly Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $30,750 | $369,000 | $177/hour |
| New York | $17,250 | $207,000 | $99/hour |
| Texas | $26,000 | $312,000 | $150/hour |
| Florida | $21,417 | $257,000 | $124/hour |
The demand for licensed periodontists continues to grow in both urban and suburban communities as patients become more aware of the link between gum health and overall well-being. Additionally, an aging population and the rising popularity of dental implants contribute to the consistent salary growth for this specialty.
Periodontists' Salary Trends in US
Current salary data places the average annual periodontist’s income in the United States between $238,000 and $473,000, with experienced practitioners and practice owners frequently surpassing $473,000. As more patients seek dental implants, regenerative treatments, and advanced periodontal care, the earning potential for periodontists remains strong and is expected to rise further in the coming years.
Periodontist’s Roles and Responsibilities
Periodontists play an essential role in comprehensive oral healthcare by managing the health of the gums and bone structures that support the teeth. They offer specialized care that goes beyond the scope of general dentistry.
- ●Diagnosing and Treating Periodontal Disease
- Periodontists perform detailed examinations to detect and treat gingivitis, periodontitis, and other gum-related conditions, tailoring treatment plans to halt disease progression and restore oral health.
- ●Performing Surgical Procedures
- They carry out advanced surgical procedures such as pocket reduction surgery, gum grafts, crown lengthening, bone grafting, and regenerative therapies to support tooth retention and aesthetics.
- ●Placing and Maintaining Dental Implants
- Periodontists are leaders in the placement of dental implants, guiding patients through implant planning, surgical placement, and ongoing maintenance for long-term success.
- ●Managing Complex Cases
- They often manage cases involving severe gum recession, bone loss, or systemic conditions that impact oral health, working in collaboration with general dentists and other specialists.
- ●Utilizing Advanced Technology
- Modern periodontists use cutting-edge diagnostic tools, laser therapy, and digital planning systems to deliver precise, minimally invasive treatments that enhance patient comfort and outcomes.
- ●Patient Education and Prevention
- Periodontists educate patients about proper home care routines, the importance of periodontal maintenance, and the systemic health connections between gum disease and conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
- ●Practice Management and Collaboration
- In addition to providing clinical care, periodontists often run their own specialty practices or partner with multi-specialty groups. They oversee scheduling, compliance, staff training, and collaboration with referring general dentists to ensure coordinated care.
Periodontist - Scope of Practice and Work Settings
Periodontists in the United States work in various settings, including private periodontal practices, multi-specialty dental clinics, dental service organizations (DSOs), hospitals, and academic institutions. Many periodontists choose to own their practices, which allows them to provide highly personalized patient care and expand their treatment offerings with advanced surgical solutions.
Some periodontists also contribute to academia by teaching future dental professionals or conducting research to develop innovative techniques and regenerative therapies that advance the field. This balance between clinical work and research keeps the specialty evolving and rewarding.
Practices in metropolitan areas or communities with a high number of aging patients often see increased demand for complex periodontal treatments and implant services. Those practicing in rural or underserved areas may benefit from federal or state incentive programs designed to expand access to specialized dental care.
Key Factors Driving Periodontist Salaries in the US
- ●Rising Demand for Implant Dentistry
- The popularity of dental implants and the need for complex bone and soft tissue preparation procedures have significantly boosted the demand for periodontists.
- ●Growing Awareness of Gum Health
- More patients now understand the connection between periodontal health and overall wellness, leading to increased routine periodontal maintenance and early intervention.
- ●Specialized Surgical Expertise
- Periodontists’ advanced training in surgical techniques, regenerative procedures, and implantology sets them apart and commands higher compensation.
- ●Practice Ownership Opportunities
- Owning a specialty periodontal practice allows practitioners to tailor their services and expand income potential through high-value procedures.
- ●Collaboration with General Dentists
- Strong referral relationships with general dentists ensure a steady flow of cases requiring specialized periodontal or implant care.
Build Your Dream Dental Team with America’s Top Periodontists
Are you looking to hire an experienced periodontist to grow your practice or expand your specialty services? Hire Smiles is your trusted recruitment partner for connecting dental practices and DSOs with exceptional periodontal talent across North America.
We help you find periodontists who bring advanced surgical skills, patient-centered care, and a commitment to the highest standards of treatment. Our recruitment experts ensure your practice is equipped with the specialized professionals you need to provide outstanding periodontal and implant services.
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