What it is
Orthodontists diagnose and correct misaligned teeth and jaws — using braces, aligners, and appliances — improving bite, function, and appearance. It's one of the most popular and best-paid dental specialties.
What you do
They plan and manage tooth movement and jaw alignment over months to years, using fixed and removable appliances.
Training path & length
2–3 year CODA-accredited residency after the DDS/DMD, then board certification.
Fellowship subspecialties
Practice focuses include early/interceptive orthodontics, adult orthodontics, and orthognathic (surgical) cases (with oral surgery).
Pay & job outlook
Dentists are well-compensated. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median wage of $179,210 for dentists (May 2024), growing about 4% from 2024 to 2034. Dental specialists — including oral & maxillofacial surgeons, orthodontists, and prosthodontists — are among the highest-paid, at or above the BLS's top published figure ($239,200+).
Orthodontists are among the highest-paid dental specialists (BLS top tier, $239,200+).
How to get there
Become a dentist first: earn a DDS or DMD, then complete this CODA-accredited residency and board certification to practice the specialty.
Explore further
Keep exploring this part of the resource:
Key facts
- Residency2–3 years (after DDS/DMD)
- TreatsTooth & jaw alignment (braces, aligners)
- SettingOutpatient clinic
- PayTop-tier dental ($239,200+)
- EntryDDS or DMD