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Student Loan Reform

Easing the burden of student loan debt.

Becoming an orthodontist requires over a decade of post-secondary education, with the average orthodontic resident graduating with a staggering $570,000 in student loan debt. This debt influences where future orthodontists can choose to practice, with most opting for cities or suburbs in order to pay down their loans faster.

To address this critical issue, the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) has developed a suite of resources to support colleagues, advocates, policymakers, and residents exploring student loan forgiveness programs and policy solutions.

Student Loan Debt for Orthodontists

 The burden of student loan debt shapes where orthodontists practice, limits their ability to buy or start practices, and reduces the number of orthodontists pursuing careers as educators. Addressing these financial challenges is a top AAO priority as we support our members and strengthen the future of dental care in the U.S.

Policy Solutions

Reduce fees and rates for all future federal borrowers.

Currently, student loan interest rates are established at the 10-year Treasury note rate, plus a margin 2.05% for Undergraduate Stafford Loans, 3.60% for Graduate Stafford Loans, and 4.60% for PLUS Loans. Origination fees on Undergraduate and Graduate Stafford Loans are set at 1.069%, and for PLUS loans they are 4.276%.

We believe the marginal rates that are added to the market rate should be reduced on all federal Direct Loans, and the origination fees should be removed. Because orthodontists tend to borrow heavily to complete 6 to 7 years of graduate school, such rate reductions would be of great value to orthodontic students.

The AAO Political Action Committee ensures orthodontists’ voices are heard in the federal government.