for a hour workweek orthodontists earn a median a year according to the journal of clinical orthodontics general dentists meanwhile earn about half as much working hours a week on average in a much dirtier job the difference in their training isn't like that of a heart surgeon vs a family practice doctor it's a mere two years and a vastly rewarding investment if you're among the chosen u s dental schools have long been criticized for keeping orthodontists in artificially low supply to keep their income up this isn't brain surgery orthodontists simply manipulate teeth in a growing child's mouth and often leave adjustment work to assistants whose handiwork they merely sign off on