Choosing your career in orthodontics

The orthodontic field is full of opportunities. Each career choice is personally and professionally satisfying. In each you’ll be a member of a special team which produces better oral health, enhanced self-esteem and beautiful smiles.

In addition to being able to manage your own career path (molding it to fit your lifestyle). . .and in addition to the financial rewards that come with a career in orthodontics. . .as a member of the orthodontic team you will be rewarded as you see someone’s smile change gradually before your eyes. As their teeth and jaws shift into alignment, patients’ personalities change too. Their self-confidence blossoms. Teens, men and women become ready to smile and confidently meet the world face-first.

Please remember such rewards as you consider a career in orthodontics.

What does it take to become an orthodontist?

All orthodontists are, first of all, dentists, but only about six percent of dentists are orthodontists. Admission to orthodontic post-graduate programs is extremely competitive and selective.

It takes many years to become an orthodontist. As in medicine, the educational requirements are demanding.

First, an orthodontist must complete college. Next is a three- to four-year graduate program at a dental school in a university or other institution accredited by the American Dental Association (ADA). Finally, there are at least two or three years of advanced specialty education in an ADA-accredited orthodontic residency program. The program is difficult. It includes advanced knowledge in biomedical, behavioral and basic sciences. The orthodontic resident learns the complex skills required to both manage tooth movement (orthodontics) and guide facial development (dentofacial orthopedics).

Only dentists who have successfully completed this advanced specialty education may call themselves orthodontists.

For more information on orthodontics and on careers in orthodontics : Talk with your orthodontist.