Orthodontic specialist salary

Salary and Working Conditions for Orthodontic Specialists

Working as an orthodontic specialist means being part of the dental care team that focuses on correcting the position of teeth and jaws to improve bite function and aesthetics. This profession is a specialization within the dental field and requires solid education and experience. But what does an orthodontic specialist actually earn, and what is the job market like for this profession?

Orthodontic Specialist Salary

An orthodontic specialist has an average monthly salary of 54 400 kronor. However, there is a gender pay gap where men earn an average of 57 300 kronor while women earn 53 400 kronor, meaning that women earn 93 percent of what men do in the same profession. The hourly wage for an orthodontic specialist averages 327 kronor, based on 166 working hours per month.

Salary Development and Variation

Over the past year, the average salary for orthodontic specialists has increased from 52 700 to 54 400 kronor. The highest salary in the profession is 73000 kronor, belonging to a man in the municipal sector with a doctoral degree. Similarly, the highest salary for a woman is 70500 kronor. On the other hand, the lowest salary for an orthodontic specialist can be as low as 35200 kronor for a woman with a 3-year high school education in the municipal sector, while the equivalent salary for a man is 38700 kronor.

Education and Qualifications

Becoming an orthodontic specialist requires first training as a dentist, which involves a five-year university education. This is followed by a specialization in orthodontics, which usually takes an additional three years. This specialization includes both theoretical and practical elements where one works under the supervision of experienced specialists.

Key Traits and Skills

As an orthodontic specialist, it is important to have a good understanding of facial and jaw anatomy, excellent hand-eye coordination, and attention to detail. Communication is also crucial, as one needs to be able to explain treatment plans to both patients and their families.

Job Market and Outlook

According to the Employment Service, the opportunities for work as a dentist, including orthodontic specialists, are significant. Over a five-year period, demand is expected to increase compared to today. However, the recruitment situation is a paradox: there are difficulties in recruiting while there is a relatively high unemployment rate and many in the profession work part-time or leave the profession.

Challenges in the Profession

One of the major challenges is the high competition for specialist training positions. Additionally, the workload can be high, and it is important to be able to manage stress and have good time management skills.

Benefits and Working Conditions

Working as an orthodontic specialist can entail various benefits depending on the employer. In the public sector, there may be opportunities for paid further education as well as other benefits such as occupational pension and longer vacation. In some cases, there may also be opportunities for flexible working hours or working from home, depending on the needs and workplace policy.

Final Thoughts

Working as an orthodontic specialist is a rewarding profession that combines medical knowledge with aesthetic results. With a relatively high average salary and good prospects, it is an attractive career choice for many. The educational path is long, and the competition can be tough, but for those who are dedicated and passionate, there are many opportunities to grow and develop in the field.