Here are seven things to know about the orthodontics field this year:
1. There are 10,906 orthodontists and dentofacial orthopedic practitioners in the U.S.
2. The number of practicing orthodontists has increased by 17% in 20 years.
3. California has 1,545 orthodontists, the most of any state.
4. The average annual salary for an orthodontist is $216,320.
5. Orthodontics students can have an average of $560,000 in student debt.
6. Several orthodontics-focused DSOs and MSOs have launched in recent years, including beBright, Bond Orthodontic Partners and Phase 1 Equity.
7. Dallas-based Smile Doctors, an orthodontic support organization, is one of the largest dental organizations in the U.S.