Orthodontist Career Guide

For most people, having a set of straight teeth is a great confidence booster. It allows them to smile without feeling the need to hide their teeth. They can speak with more confidence and communicate effectively as they no longer worry about how their teeth look like. But to whom does one run to when they want to get their perfect smiles?

Orthodontists are responsible for identifying and treating teeth and jaw abnormalities. They study a patient?s dental history, analyze it, and design a treatment plan. They use devices such as braces, retainers, and other appliances to realign or straighten teeth.

To become an orthodontist, one must obtain a Bachelor?s degree with science-related courses and complete 3 to 4 years of dental school. For those wanting to pursue dental specializations, a further 2-4 years of residency must be completed, although oral and maxillofacial surgery programs take 4 to 6 years. Additionally, all dentists must be licensed before they can practice. For those with dental specializations, they must also be licensed for that specialty.

This career can be very fulfilling as orthodontists are able to create meaningful relationships with their patients over the course of years. It can also be gratifying seeing people transform into their perfect smiles and gain their confidence back. They can also be their own boss as some of them run their own clinic. Braces and dental services are expensive which means that an orthodontist can get paid well. However, becoming a dentist can be physically demanding and stressful. They are on their feet for hours examining patients and performing procedures. Also, when dentists start their practice, they will need to work extra hours to establish themselves.

A good orthodontist must have great attention to detail, physical dexterity, and good communication. If you have these qualities and want to help people achieve their perfect smiles, then this career might be for you!