How Much Do Dentists Make?

Dentists specializing in fields beyond general dentistry are earning an impressive average annual salary of $244,470, according to recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. With nearly 6,000 professionals employed in this niche field, these dental specialists are among the top earners in the health care industry.

These highly skilled professionals focus on specific areas of dental care, such as orthodontics, periodontics, or oral and maxillofacial surgery. They provide specialized treatments that go beyond routine dental check-ups and procedures. In this article, we'll sink our teeth into the world of specialized dentistry, exploring how salaries and job opportunities vary across different regions of the United States. We'll also compare these roles to other dental and medical professions, giving you a comprehensive view of the career landscape. Whether you're considering a career in specialized dentistry or simply curious about the earning potential in this field, we've got you covered with all the details you need to know.

Highest Paying States for Dentists, All Other Specialists

The earning potential for dentists specializing in fields beyond general dentistry varies significantly across the United States. According to the latest data, the top-paying states for these dental specialists are:

• Connecticut leads the nation with an impressive average annual salary of $312,500 and an hourly mean wage of $150.24. This state offers the highest compensation for dental specialists, although employment figures are not specified.
• Texas follows with an average annual salary of $287,240 and an hourly wage of $138.10, marking it as a lucrative state for dental specialists.
• Arizona also ranks highly, offering an average annual salary of $265,680 and employing 230 specialists, providing both competitive pay and employment opportunities.

Other states notable for their high salaries include:

• New Hampshire with an average annual salary of $257,380 and an hourly mean wage of $123.74.
• New York and California, offering salaries of $252,630 and $249,610, respectively, with New York employing 350 specialists and California 910, indicating robust job markets in these populous states.

These states offer enticing financial incentives for dental specialists, highlighting areas where the demand for specialized dental expertise is matched by substantial compensation.

Comparing Salaries of Dental Specialists

When looking at the average salaries of different dental specialists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons come out on top. According to the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, these surgeons earn an impressive average annual salary of $334,310, which translates to about $160.73 per hour. In comparison, orthodontists, who specialize in aligning teeth and jaws, make an average of $243,620 per year, or $117.13 per hour.

Dentists who fall under the category of "All Other Specialists," which includes various specialized dental fields, earn a similar annual average salary to orthodontists at $244,470, or $117.53 per hour. Despite the differences in their salaries, the employment numbers for these specialists vary. There are 4,160 oral and maxillofacial surgeons, 6,400 orthodontists, and 5,920 other specialist dentists working in the United States.

Bottom Line

For those considering a career as a dental specialist beyond general dentistry, the financial prospects are promising. Dentists in specialized fields, such as orthodontics, periodontics, and oral and maxillofacial surgery, earn an average annual salary of $244,470. This positions them among the highest earners in the health care industry.

Key takeaways for aspiring dental specialists include:

• High Earning Potential: Specialized dentists, particularly oral and maxillofacial surgeons, can earn up to $334,310 annually.
• Regional Variations: States like Connecticut, Texas, and Arizona offer substantial salaries, with Connecticut leading at $312,500 annually.
• Job Market Insights: There are numerous opportunities across the country, with states like New York and California employing a significant number of specialists.

In summary, pursuing a career in specialized dentistry offers lucrative financial rewards, particularly in select states where demand and compensation align.