How To Become Orthodontist | SkillsAndTech

When you think of an orthodontist, you might think of someone who simply straightens teeth. However, there is much more to becoming an orthodontist than meets the eye. If you’re interested in becoming an orthodontist, read on to find out how.

Orthodontists are dental specialists who diagnose and treat irregularities of the teeth and jaws. They use a variety of appliances, such as braces, retainers, and headgear, to correct these problems. The first step to becoming an orthodontist is to complete a four-year undergraduate degree program. During your undergraduate years, you’ll need to take courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and math.

See Also: How To Become Dentist

What is an Orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has completed two to three years of additional training beyond dental school. They diagnose and treat dental and facial irregularities. Orthodontists use braces, retainers, and other appliances to help align the teeth and jaws in order to improve a person’s bite and smile.

Orthodontists must be licensed in the state where they practice. Most states require completion of an accredited orthodontic residency program. Many orthodontists are members of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO).

See Also: How To Become Dental Hygienist

What Does an Orthodontist Do?

An orthodontist is a specialist who diagnoses and treats teeth that are misaligned or do not fit together correctly. They use braces, retainers, and other appliances to correct the alignment of teeth and jaws.

Orthodontists must complete four years of dental school and two to three years of residency training in order to become licensed. In addition to their formal education, they must also pass both written and clinical exams administered by the American Board of Orthodontics.

See Also: How To Become Dentist

The Different Types of Orthodontists

There are three different types of orthodontists: general orthodontists, pediatric orthodontists, and surgical orthodontists. General orthodontists treat patients of all ages with braces or other corrective devices.

Pediatric orthodontists specialize in treating children and adolescents. Surgical orthodontists correct severe dental and facial irregularities with surgery.

Pros and Cons of Being an Orthodontist

The Pros

1. As an orthodontist, you have the potential to earn a very good income.

2. You will be able to help people achieve straighter teeth and a more attractive smile, which can boost their confidence levels.

3. You can set your own hours and work environment, as many orthodontists are self-employed.

4. You will need to complete a specialized education and training program in order to become an orthodontist, which can be both challenging and rewarding.

The Cons

1. The cost of becoming an orthodontist can be quite high, as you will need to complete a specialized education and training program.

2. You may have to deal with difficult patients who are unhappy with their results or who do not follow your treatment plan properly.

How to Become an Orthodontist?

In order to become an orthodontist, you must first complete a bachelor’s degree at an accredited college or university.

After completing your undergraduate studies, you must then attend an accredited dental school for four years. Upon completion of dental school, you must obtain a license to practice orthodontics in your state. Finally, you may elect to pursue board certification through the American Board of Orthodontics.

Alternatives to Becoming an Orthodontist

If you’re interested in becoming an orthodontist, but not sure if it’s the right career for you, there are plenty of other options to consider. Here are a few alternative careers that may be a better fit:

-Dentist: Many orthodontists start out their careers as dentists. If you’re interested in straightening teeth, but not necessarily interested in the business side of things, becoming a dentist is a great option. You can still specialize in orthodontics and help your patients achieve beautiful smiles.

-Dental Hygienist: Dental hygienists clean teeth and provide preventative care. If you’re more interested in the cleaning and maintenance side of things, this may be a better career for you. You’ll still get to work with patients and help them maintain their oral health.

-Dental Assistant: Dental assistants work closely with dentists and dental hygienists to provide quality care for patients. If you’re interested in working in the dental field, but not necessarily interested in becoming a dentist or hygienist, this is a great option. You’ll get to learn all about the ins and outs of dental care while still helping patients achieve healthy mouths.

Conclusion

Becoming an orthodontist is no easy feat, but it is definitely achievable if you are willing to put in the hard work.

The first step is to complete an accredited dental program and then pass the National Board Dental Examinations. After that, you will need to obtain a license to practice orthodontics in your state.

Once you have all of that taken care of, you can start your own practice or join an existing one. Helping people achieve straighter teeth and a more confident smile is a rewarding career, so if you are up for the challenge, don’t hesitate to give it a shot.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Question)

What does a Orthodontist do ?

An orthodontist is a dentist who specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. The field of orthodontics includes the study of how teeth and jaws aligned and how this affects a person’s overall health. An orthodontist completes two to three years of additional training after completing dental school.

Orthodontists use braces, retainers, and other appliances to align teeth and jaws. They also work with patients to ensure that teeth are properly brushed and flossed. Orthodontists may also provide education on diet and nutrition for proper oral health.

How much do Orthodontist make ?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for orthodontists was $208,000 in May 2019. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $102,870, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $208,000.

How much does it cost to be a Orthodontist?

Orthodontists are dental specialists who diagnose and treat irregularities of the teeth and jaws. They may also provide preventive care, interceptive treatment, and braces for patients of all ages. The cost of becoming an orthodontist can be significant, but the potential earnings and job satisfaction make it a worthwhile investment.

The cost of tuition, books, and supplies for an orthodontic program varies depending on the school you attend. Private schools tend to be more expensive than public schools, but both types of programs typically offer financial aid to help offset the cost. In addition to tuition, you’ll also need to factor in living expenses while you’re in school.

After completing an accredited orthodontic program, you must obtain a license in order to practice. Licensing requirements vary by state, but all states require passing written and practical exams. The cost of taking these exams is usually around $1,000.

Once you’re licensed, you can start your own practice or join an existing one. The start-up costs for opening your own practice can be significant – you’ll need to lease or purchase office space, buy equipment and supplies, and hire staff. The average orthodontist earns $100-200 per hour – meaning that the investment in becoming an orthodontist can pay off handsomely over time!

How many hours of Orthodontist Work ?

To become an orthodontist, you must complete a four-year undergraduate degree, followed by four years of dental school. After graduation, you will need to complete a two- to three-year residency program in orthodontics. In total, you can expect to spend around 12 years completing your education and training.

Orthodontists typically work 40 hours per week. However, because they often work in private practices, they may need to work additional hours to meet the needs of their patients. Orthodontists may also need to work evenings and weekends to accommodate their patients’ schedules.

How long does it take to become a Orthodontist?

In order to become an orthodontist, one must complete several years of schooling and training. The first step is to obtain a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Once you have your degree, you must then complete a three-year dental program at an accredited dental school. After completing your dental program, you will then need to obtain a license in order to practice orthodontics.