Why Orthodontists Smile All the Way to the Bank: 7 Insights
Hopefully this list will satisfy your curious mind about why orthodontists are among the top earners in the medical field!
- Specialized Dental Experts
- Training: Orthodontists undergo rigorous training to specialize in correcting teeth and jaw irregularities.
- Role: They design corrective treatment plans tailored to individual needs, such as braces or retainers.
- Impact: Their work significantly influences a person's smile and self-confidence.
- Stellar Median Salary
- Figure: Orthodontists had a median salary of $208,000 in 2021.
- Comparison: The top 25% earned the same, while the bottom 25% made $150,690.
- Ranking: They rank #5 in Best Paying Jobs.
- Low Unemployment Rate
- Statistic: The unemployment rate for orthodontists is a mere 0.5%.
- Job Openings: An estimated 300 job positions are projected to open up between 2021 and 2031.
- Growth: The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 4.5% employment growth for this profession.
- Extensive Education Path
- Duration: Aspiring orthodontists commit to roughly a decade of schooling and training.
- Breakdown: This includes four years of undergraduate college, four years of dental school, and an additional two to three years of full-time residency.
- Admission: Candidates must pass the Dental Admission Test and a national board exam.
- Competitive Residency Programs
- Availability: There are 67 residency programs in the U.S.
- Admission Rate: Only 4% of applicants get admitted to a program.
- Training: Residency allows them to practice under experienced professionals.
- Job Satisfaction Metrics
- Upward Mobility: Opportunities for advancements and salary are average.
- Stress Level: The job's responsibilities and work environment are rated below average in stress.
- Flexibility: They enjoy above-average work-life balance and alternative working schedules.
- Recognition in Multiple Categories
- Best Health Care Jobs: Orthodontists rank #72.
- Best STEM Jobs: They secure the #20 position.
- 100 Best Jobs: They are also recognized at #14 in this category.