Orthodontists
Job Zone 5 - Extensive preparation needed
Examine, diagnose, and treat dental malocclusions and oral cavity anomalies. Design and fabricate appliances to realign teeth and jaws to produce and maintain normal function and to improve appearance.
Median pay: $289,140/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: +4.4% projected growth, 2024–2034 — about as fast as average.
About 200 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: Doctoral or professional degree.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Diagnose teeth and jaw or other dental-facial abnormalities.
• Examine patients to assess abnormalities of jaw development, tooth position, and other dental-facial structures.
• Study diagnostic records, such as medical or dental histories, plaster models of the teeth, photos of a patient's face and teeth, and X-rays, to develop patient treatment plans.
• Fit dental appliances in patients' mouths to alter the position and relationship of teeth and jaws or to realign teeth.
• Adjust dental appliances to produce and maintain normal function.
• Provide patients with proposed treatment plans and cost estimates.
• Advise patients to comply with treatment plans.
• Prepare diagnostic and treatment records.
What's the median pay for Orthodontists?
The median pay for Orthodontists is $289,140 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Orthodontists?
Employment for Orthodontists is projected to change +4.4% from 2024 to 2034 - about as fast as average.
What education is typically required for Orthodontists?
Typical entry-level education: Doctoral or professional degree.
How many job openings are there each year for Orthodontists?
About 200 openings per year, on average, over the decade.