Orthodontist vs Respiratory Therapist: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Orthodontist
Correct misaligned teeth and jaws using braces and other dental devices.
Respiratory Therapist
Diagnose and treat patients with breathing disorders and cardiopulmonary issues.
Orthodontist earns more on average — the national median is $207,667/year (255%) higher than a Respiratory Therapist. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Orthodontist vs Respiratory Therapist — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Orthodontist | Respiratory Therapist | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $414,875 | $120,057 | Orthodontist +$294,818 |
| New York, NY | $344,433 | $97,873 | Orthodontist +$246,560 |
| Seattle, WA | $410,008 | $118,754 | Orthodontist +$291,254 |
| Austin, TX | $329,388 | $89,357 | Orthodontist +$240,031 |
| Chicago, IL | $302,548 | $89,921 | Orthodontist +$212,627 |
| Boston, MA | $369,314 | $108,564 | Orthodontist +$260,750 |
| London, UK | £224,845 | £61,769 | Orthodontist +$163,076 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$377,816 | CA$110,580 | Orthodontist +$267,236 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Orthodontist or Respiratory Therapist earn more?+
A Orthodontist earns more on average. The national median salary for a Orthodontist is $289,140/year, compared to $81,473/year for a Respiratory Therapist — a difference of $207,667 (255%).
Which has better career growth — Orthodontist or Respiratory Therapist?+
Orthodontist roles are growing at 6% YoY while Respiratory Therapist demand is growing at 14% YoY. Respiratory Therapist has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Orthodontist to Respiratory Therapist?+
Yes. Many professionals transition between these roles, especially since both are in the same category. Shared skills include: analytical thinking, communication, and industry knowledge.
Which is harder to automate — Orthodontist or Respiratory Therapist?+
Orthodontist has a lower AI automation risk (10% vs 15%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.