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.
SOC: 29-1023.00
Common Job Titles
Orthodontic Dentist
Orthodontic Specialist
Orthodontics Doctor
Orthodontist
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeEvaluate dental malocclusions and oral cavity anomalies using diagnostic imaging and clinical examination data to develop comprehensive treatment plans.
Advanced
Hands-onDesign orthodontic appliances to realign teeth and jaws using 3D imaging technology and biomechanical principles to achieve functional and aesthetic outcomes.
Advanced
KnowledgeFormulate individualized treatment strategies for diverse malocclusion cases synthesizing knowledge of dentofacial growth, biomechanics, and patient-specific anatomical factors.
Advanced
MindsetAdvocate for continuing professional education and evidence-based practice standards by staying current with orthodontic research and integrating new technologies into clinical workflows.
Advanced
Hands-onPerform efficiently orthodontic procedures including bracket placement and wire adjustments using specialized instrumentation while maintaining precision and patient comfort.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess treatment progress and patient compliance through continuous monitoring of dental alignment and facial development over multi-year treatment periods.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate patient-centered communication with complex treatment education when explaining orthodontic procedures and expected outcomes to patients and families.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate digital imaging and diagnostic equipment including CBCT and intraoral scanners to capture accurate three-dimensional representations of dental and skeletal structures.
Proficient
KnowledgeInterpret cephalometric radiographs and dental models applying orthodontic analysis principles to diagnose craniofacial abnormalities and growth patterns.
Proficient
MindsetBalance patient aesthetic desires with evidence-based clinical recommendations when negotiating treatment objectives and managing expectations for functional and cosmetic outcomes.
Proficient
KnowledgeCoordinate interdisciplinary care with dental specialists and general practitioners for complex cases requiring surgical intervention or adjunctive periodontal and restorative treatment.
Proficient
KnowledgeDevelop practice management strategies including personnel oversight and resource allocation to optimize clinical efficiency, quality control, and patient satisfaction in orthodontic settings.
Proficient
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Orthodontists (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
5,150
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $98,560. 25th percentile: U.S. $137,320. 50th percentile: U.S. $239,200. 75th percentile: U.S. $239,200. 90th percentile: U.S. $239,200. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$98,560
10% of workers earn the following or more
$239,200+
Workers on average earn
$254,620
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Medicine and Dentistry5.0/5
Customer and Personal Service4.3/5
English Language3.7/5
Biology3.7/5
Computers and Electronics3.3/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
