Orthodontist is a Lucrative Job

February 05, 2023 · 3 min read

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for orthodontists was $228,830 in May 2020. The highest 10 percent earned more than $208,000, and the lowest 10 percent earned less than $208,000. There are many aspects that affect the specialist salary, let’s get acquainted with them. 

For example, orthodontists who have a large patient base and a steady flow of new patients may earn more than those who have a smaller patient base. Orthodontists who are able to build a strong reputation in their community and attract new patients through effective marketing and referral programs may also earn more.

Obviously, orthodontists who use the latest technology and techniques in their practice may be able to charge higher fees and earn a higher salary. For example, orthodontists who use clear aligners or other advanced treatment options may be able to charge more than those who only use traditional metal braces.

In addition, orthodontists who have strong business acumen and are able to manage the financial aspects of their practice effectively may also have a higher earning potential. This can include implementing cost-saving measures, managing staff effectively, and having a good billing and collections process.

It is not surprising,  earning potential of an orthodontist can be affected by the economy and other external factors, such as the availability of funding for orthodontic treatment. Therefore, the earning potential for orthodontists is subject to change over time.



The salary of an orthodontist can vary depending on location. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the states with the highest employment levels for orthodontists in May 2020 were California, Texas, and New York. These states also tend to have some of the highest average salaries for orthodontists.

In general, orthodontists in urban areas and high-income states tend to earn more than those in rural or lower-income states. For example, orthodontists in states like California, New York, and Massachusetts tend to earn higher salaries than those in states like Mississippi, West Virginia, and Arkansas.

Additionally, orthodontists in some metropolitan areas tend to earn more than those in other areas. For example, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the metropolitan areas with the highest employment levels for orthodontists in May 2020 were the New York-Newark-Jersey City, Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, and Chicago-Naperville-Elgin metropolitan areas.

Obviously, the cost of living also plays a role in determining the salary of an orthodontist. For example, an orthodontist in a high-cost city like San Francisco or New York City may earn a higher salary than one in a smaller city, but they may also have higher expenses, such as office rent and staff salaries.

As we see, there are too many factors that influence the income of an orthodontist, but anyway, it is still a rewarding job with its own pluses and minuses.

by Olena Kukhtyk

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