How Much Does a Specialized Dentist Make?
Dentists diagnose and treat teeth and gum-related problems. They provide instruction on the proper application of dental care. General dentists clean teeth, fill cavities, apply sealants and straighten and repair teeth. Some dentists specialize in a particular area of dentistry. Specialized dentists perform dental surgery and root canals and diagnose and treat oral disease. The earnings of dentists vary by the type of dentistry they specialize in.
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Orthodontist
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Orthodontists make up the largest group of dental specialists according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Orthodontists improve the appearance of teeth. They straighten and realign teeth by applying braces or other appliances. They also help patients maintain normal function of teeth. According to the BLS, the mean annual wages of orthodontists were $206,190 as of May 2009.
Oral Surgeon
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Oral surgeons operate on the mouth, teeth and gums. They perform teeth extractions and remove tumors and other abnormal growths from patient's mouths. Oral surgeons also treat jaw fractures and correct jaw-related abnormalities. Surgeons also prepare the mouth for dental prosthesis. As of May 2009, oral surgeons earned annual median wages of $166,400 per year according to the BLS. Oral surgeons employed in medical and surgical hospitals earned an annual mean wage of $200,020 per year according to the BLS.
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Prosthodontists
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Prosthodontists replace missing teeth by constructing oral prostheses. Prosthodontists correct natural deformities as well as abnormalities caused by injury or disease. They create permanent fixtures such as crowns, bridges and dentures to help patients restore chewing and speaking function. According to the BLS, prosthodontists earn mean annual wages of $125,400. Prosthodontists who work in physicians offices earn annual wages of $94,410.
Other Specialties
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Other dental specialists include endodontists, who perform root canal therapy. Periodontists treat gums and the bones of the mouth. Oral pathologists diagnose oral disease. Oral radiologists diagnose oral disease through the use of digital imaging. These specialists work in a variety of settings including private practices, doctors offices or public health agencies. According to the BLS, these dental specialists earn median wages of $153,290 per year.
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References
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2009: 29-1022 Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2009: 29-1023 Orthodontists
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2009: 29-1024 Prosthodontists
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2009: 29-1029 Dentists, All Other Specialties
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