The average hourly wage for an orthodontist can vary significantly depending on factors such as location, years of experience, and type of practice. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for orthodontists in the United States was $225,760 in May 2020. To calculate the average hourly wage, we need to consider the number of hours worked per year. Assuming a full-time orthodontist works around 2,080 hours per year (40 hours per week for 52 weeks), the average hourly wage would be approximately $108.44 per hour.
Average Hourly Wage by Location
The average hourly wage for orthodontists can vary significantly depending on the location. According to the BLS, the top five highest-paying states for orthodontists in May 2020 were:
| State | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska | $263,610 | $126.64 |
| North Dakota | $257,980 | $124.04 |
| South Dakota | $254,740 | $122.42 |
| Delaware | $253,450 | $121.80 |
| Wisconsin | $252,440 | $121.27 |
On the other hand, the bottom five lowest-paying states for orthodontists in May 2020 were:
| State | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma | $194,440 | $93.53 |
| Arkansas | $196,410 | $94.38 |
| Mississippi | $198,350 | $95.41 |
| West Virginia | $200,290 | $96.44 |
| Alabama | $202,230 | $97.28 |
Average Hourly Wage by Years of Experience
The average hourly wage for orthodontists can also vary depending on years of experience. According to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), the average annual salary for orthodontists in the United States in 2020 was:
| Years of Experience | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 0-5 years | $150,000 | $72.12 |
| 5-10 years | $200,000 | $96.15 |
| 10-20 years | $250,000 | $120.19 |
| 20+ years | $300,000 | $144.23 |
It's worth noting that these figures are based on national averages and can vary depending on individual circumstances. Location, years of experience, and type of practice are all important factors that can impact an orthodontist's average hourly wage. Additionally, orthodontic specialty and certification can also play a role in determining an orthodontist's earning potential.
Future Implications
The demand for orthodontists is expected to grow in the coming years, driven by an increasing population and a growing awareness of the importance of oral health. According to the BLS, employment of orthodontists is projected to grow 8% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to lead to an increase in the average hourly wage for orthodontists, as well as an increase in the number of job opportunities available.
In order to become a successful orthodontist, it's essential to have a strong educational foundation, including a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree, as well as a Master's degree in orthodontics. Additionally, orthodontists must be licensed to practice in their state and must complete a certain number of hours of continuing education each year to stay up-to-date on the latest techniques and technologies.
What is the average hourly wage for an orthodontist in the United States?
+The average hourly wage for an orthodontist in the United States is approximately 108.44 per hour, based on a median annual salary of 225,760 and an assumption of 2,080 hours worked per year.
How does location impact the average hourly wage for orthodontists?
+Location can have a significant impact on the average hourly wage for orthodontists, with some states paying significantly more than others. For example, orthodontists in Alaska have an average hourly wage of 126.64, while those in Oklahoma have an average hourly wage of 93.53.
What is the outlook for orthodontist employment in the coming years?
+Employment of orthodontists is projected to grow 8% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to lead to an increase in the average hourly wage for orthodontists, as well as an increase in the number of job opportunities available.
