Student loans for orthodontists: your 2026 repayment strategy

The key question for orthodontists

Orthodontists carry some of the largest training debts but also strong incomes. Private practice means PSLF rarely applies, so refinancing and payoff strategy dominate — but the right term length can save six figures.

How the decision usually breaks down

• If you work for a nonprofit or government employer: Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) is often the lowest-cost path — 120 qualifying payments, then tax-free forgiveness. How PSLF works →
• If you're in private practice or a for-profit group: PSLF usually isn't available, so the choice is between an income-driven plan (RAP) and refinancing to a lower rate. Compare refinance lenders →
• If your debt is modest relative to your $330,000 income: refinancing to the shortest term you can afford often wins, because little would be forgiven anyway.
• If your debt is high relative to income: income-driven forgiveness (and the tax-free version, PSLF) becomes far more valuable.

What about the new RAP plan?

As of July 1, 2026, the Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) is the new federal income-driven option. For orthodontists, whether RAP beats legacy IBR or refinancing comes down to your income and PSLF eligibility — which is exactly what our calculator sorts out. RAP vs IBR explained →

Educational estimates, not financial advice. Income and debt figures are representative ranges, not your specific numbers. Verify program rules at studentaid.gov. See our methodology and disclosures.