Radiology vs Orthodontics: Salary Comparison (2026)
Compare Radiology and Orthodontics compensation across salary, lifestyle, and career metrics. See how Radiologist salaries stack up against Orthodontist pay using verified physician data on SalaryDr.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Radiology | Orthodontics |
|---|---|---|
| Training Length | 5-year residency | 4yr dental school + 2-3yr residency |
| Practitioner Title | Radiologist | Orthodontist |
| Live Salary Data | View Radiology salary → | View Orthodontics salary → |
| Lifestyle Rating | See details below | See details below |
Salary figures are updated in real-time on each specialty page from verified physician submissions.
Key Differences
Training Path
- Radiology: 5-year residency
- Orthodontics: 4yr dental school + 2-3yr residency
Practice Setting
Both Radiology and Orthodontics offer diverse practice settings including academic medical centers, private practice, and hospital employment. Compensation varies significantly by setting.
Lifestyle & Work-Life Balance
Radiology
Favorable lifestyle with growing remote-reading opportunities. Call varies by practice.
Orthodontics
Outstanding lifestyle with elective procedures and predictable scheduling.
Career Considerations
Job Market Outlook
Both Radiology and Orthodontics continue to see strong demand driven by an aging population and expanding healthcare access. Geographic demand varies; rural and underserved areas often offer higher compensation to attract specialists.
Compensation Growth Trajectory
Physician salaries in both specialties typically increase with experience, with the largest jumps in the first 5-10 years post-training. Partnership or ownership in private practice can meaningfully accelerate earnings.
Subspecialization Opportunities
Both specialties offer fellowship pathways that can further differentiate earning potential and lifestyle. Compare detailed salary data for each specialty to see how subspecialties affect pay.
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