Pediatric Dentist salary: how much do pediatric dentists make?
As of 2024, the median pediatric dentist in the U.S. earns $179,210. This figure is an modeled estimate, not a verified local survey value.
BLS does not publish a pediatric-dentist wage series; pediatric dentists fall under "Dentists, All Other Specialists" (29-1029). As a conservative baseline we show the verified General Dentist median ($179,210). Practicing pediatric specialists typically earn more. We label this a modeled estimate rather than fabricate a pediatric-specific figure.
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Pay distribution
Full pediatric dentist wage distribution. Values marked “est.” are interpolated between published percentiles.
| Percentile | Annual pay |
|---|---|
| 10th percentilei | $179,210est. |
| 25th percentilei | $179,210est. |
| Median (50th)i | $179,210 |
| 75th percentilei | $216,704est. |
| 90th percentilei | $239,200+ |
What drives pediatric dentist pay
- Patient volume and Medicaid mix
- Practice ownership
- Geographic demand
- Sedation and special-needs caseload
About the role
Pediatric dentists complete a 2–3 year residency after dental school to treat children, including those with special needs. BLS does not publish a dedicated pediatric-dentist wage series; the headline figure here is drawn from the OEWS "Dentists, All Other Specialists" code (29-1029) and is best read as a specialist baseline.
Career path
- DDS/DMD degree
- 2–3 year pediatric dentistry residency
- Associate, then practice ownership
Typical responsibilities
- Provide preventive and restorative care for children
- Manage behavior and dental anxiety in young patients
- Treat developmental and special-needs cases
- Counsel parents on children's oral health
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