Orthodontist Career Information

What is the Job of an Orthodontist?

Orthodontists are trained dentists who identify and address dental conditions like crooked teeth and misaligned jaws. With patients, they employ a range of tools, such as braces, headgear, and retainers. The following duties are under the purview of orthodontists:

• Consult with patients about dental concerns: Orthodontists talk with patients about common dental issues ranging from underbites to overcrowding. They also discuss aesthetic issues, such as a misaligned jaw, with patients.
  
• Diagnose dental issues: To diagnose dental problems, orthodontists use tools like X-rays and study models. After examining bite impressions or X-rays, orthodontists suggest treatment plans, such as braces to straighten teeth or headgear to align the jaw.
  
• Treat patients for dental problems: After starting a treatment plan, orthodontists perform regular checkups for patients. Over the course of months or years, they may tighten braces or provide additional equipment, such as face masks or retainers.
  
• Track patients’ progress: Since many orthodontic treatment plans last for a year or more, orthodontists monitor patient progress closely. They may take additional X-rays or bite impressions to confirm results or make adjustments to address new concerns.
  
• Teach patients how to maintain good oral health: Orthodontists also show patients how to clean teeth and maintain oral health over the course of treatment plans. They may demonstrate brushing or flossing techniques that accommodate orthodontic implements like braces.

Average salary

Most orthodontists work full-time jobs. Their salaries generally depend on their experience level and their location. For the most up-to-date salary information from Indeed, click on the salary link.

• Common salary in the U.S.: $246,477 per year
• Some salaries range from $600 to $2,900 per day.

Orthodontist requirements

Orthodontist job listings typically require dental school, an orthodontic residency and a license to work in the state.

Education

Aspiring orthodontists generally need 10 to 12 years of post-secondary education. A typical education path for an aspiring orthodontist includes the following:

• Bachelor’s degree: Students can choose from a range of majors, but many opt for science-related focus areas. Since orthodontics graduate schools require a science background or minimum coursework, many aspiring orthodontists major in biology, chemistry or a related field.
  
• Doctoral degree: After earning a bachelor’s degree, aspiring orthodontists go to dental school. This three- or four-year program provides a foundation in dentistry and ends with a Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S) degree. Programs generally include classroom and interactive experiences.
  
• Post-graduate program: To specialize in this area, a post-graduate program in orthodontics is essential. To complete their education, aspiring orthodontists complete a two- to three-year program accredited by the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO). Most programs include both classroom components and an internship.

Training

Orthodontists typically complete their training in the form of a residency, which is part of the post-graduate orthodontics program. This residency program generally lasts two to three years and offers extensive experience working with patients. During a residency, aspiring orthodontists work alongside licensed orthodontists in clinical settings and gradually take on increasing responsibilities. Most orthodontists opt for a residency approved by the ABO, especially if they are considering pursuing certification in the future.

Certifications

All orthodontists need a license to practice in their state. Although requirements may vary from state to state, they usually include passing written and clinical exams administered by the American Dental Association. To get a license to practice as an orthodontist, aspiring professionals are required to meet the following requirements in many states:

• Be at least 18 or 21 years old
• Complete a background check
• Provide fingerprints for identification
• Have a good character
• Show proof of malpractice insurance
• Have a hepatitis B vaccination
• Take courses on preventing infections and other safety-related topics
• Have a CPR or Basic Life Support certification

In addition to the essential education, training and licensure, many professionals opt to become board-certified orthodontists. Those who pursue ABO certification must pass a written exam and complete a clinical exam, which is typically offered in the main ABO office in St. Louis, MO. Although this certification is optional, it demonstrates orthodontists’ commitment to the profession and desire to maintain the highest level of education and standards in the field.

Skills

To succeed as an orthodontist, you need these skills:

• Attention to detail: Orthodontists are responsible for identifying dental issues and recommending appropriate treatment to resolve them. They must notice and pay attention to details.
  
• Communication skills: To learn about patients’ conditions, diagnose problems and recommend treatments, orthodontists need excellent communication skills. They must speak and write clearly and provide accurate, easy-to-follow instructions.
  
• Organizational skills: Orthodontists may have hundreds of current patients, all with different issues and treatment plans. To carefully track patient progress and offer accurate advice, they must be highly organized.
  
• Patience: Many orthodontic treatments require several hours to complete, and some patients may be less comfortable when under the care of orthodontists. To perform lengthy treatments and address challenging patients, orthodontists must be patient and persistent.
  
• Problem-solving skills: Orthodontists process, research and resolve problems on a daily basis. They need strong problem-solving skills to assess conditions, diagnose problems and develop effective treatment plans for each patient.

Orthodontist work environment

Orthodontists typically work in specially equipped offices with one or more patient treatment areas. They sit on chairs or stools when consulting with or treating patients. On an average day, orthodontists use a wide range of equipment and supplies, including X-ray machines, dental model materials, and bonding and bracketing products. They generally wear latex gloves, protective eyewear and face masks to avoid transmitting communicable diseases to patients.

Most orthodontists work full-time jobs, but their weekly hours may vary. Some orthodontists keep traditional nine-to-five schedules, while others work on weekends or in the evenings to accommodate patient needs.

How to become an orthodontist

To become an orthodontist, follow these steps:

1. Get a bachelor’s degree: Earn a bachelor’s degree to meet the basic requirements for entering dental school.
   

2. Go to dental school: After earning your bachelor’s degree, go to dental school, which typically takes three to four years.
   

3. Complete an orthodontics program: Once you have earned your DDS or DMD, enter a specialized orthodontics program.
   

4. Finish an orthodontic residency: Complete a residency program accredited by the ABO. Most programs last for two to three years.
   

5. Earn ABO certification: Once you finish your residency, pass the written and clinical exams to earn ABO certification and work as an orthodontist.
   

6. Obtain a license: Finally, earn a dental license by passing the written and clinical exam and meeting requirements such as completing a background check and having malpractice insurance.
   

7. Join the American Association of Orthodontists: To stay current with the industry’s latest developments and professional advancements, consider an AAO membership.

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