Should I Become an Orthodontist?
An Orthodontist is a specialized dental professional who corrects teeth and jaws that are positioned improperly. They diagnose, prevent, and treat dental and facial irregularities using various devices like braces, retainers, and aligners to move teeth and jaws into a new position that results in a more attractive and healthier smile. These experts in the dental industry are also capable of rehabilitating malformations of the craniofacial complex to improve patient's masticatory function and aesthetic appearance.
A career as an Orthodontist can be incredibly fulfilling and rewarding. Not only do Orthodontists have the ability to transform their patients' smiles, but they can also greatly impact their patients' self-esteem and quality of life. It requires a high level of education and commitment, but in return, they earn a high salary, have job stability, and enjoy a flexible work schedule. It is a career that allows you to work with people of all ages and backgrounds, making each day unique and challenging. Being an Orthodontist means being a lifelong learner, as the field of orthodontics is always changing with new technologies and treatment modalities. If you have a passion for helping people and a fascination with dental health, a career in orthodontics could be the perfect fit for you!
Common Interview Questions for a Orthodontist
Job Openings for Orthodontist
Salary for Orthodontist Jobs Nationwide
$243,620
What Does an Orthodontist Do?
An Orthodontist is a highly specialized Dentist who focuses on dental alignment, jaw irregularities, and occlusion (or bite). Their primary responsibility is the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial abnormalities, helping patients to achieve both functionality and a beautiful smile. They use a range of medical dental devices, including braces, retainers and aligners, to help straighten teeth, correct bite issues or close gaps. An Orthodontist's daily routine might include developing treatment plans, examining X-rays, and monitoring patient's progress. They also counsel patients about the benefits and risks of procedures and how to maintain their dental health post-treatment.
While General Dentists provide broad dental care and are often the first point of contact for dental health, Orthodontists are trained to recognize conditions related to orthodontics and offer the most appropriate treatment solutions. In addition, Orthodontists typically require additional years of post-dental school training, focusing solely on orthodontics. Orthodontists complement the overall dental team by providing specialized knowledge and treatments that General Dentists may not offer. They often work in collaboration with other dental and healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive and holistic dental care for their patients. Their role is essential in helping patients of all ages improve their oral health by aligning teeth and jaws.
Orthodontist Qualifications & Career Path
An Orthodontist is a dental specialist who diagnoses, prevents, and treats dental irregularities such as malocclusion (improper bite), misaligned teeth, overbites, underbites, and more. To excel in this role, one must have superb manual dexterity, exceptional interpersonal skills, and a strong commitment to detail and precision. A deep understanding of dental and facial irregularities, and the ability to devise and implement effective treatment plans are paramount. Problem-solving, patience, and a passion for continuous learning are other assets because this field is constantly evolving with new techniques and technologies.
The Orthodontist career path is rigorous and rewarding. It starts with a bachelor's degree followed by four years of dental school to become a General Dentist. Afterward, a residency in orthodontics is required. Some roles a person may have before becoming an Orthodontist include working as a Dental Assistant or General Dentist, gaining practical experience and honing their skills. Lastly, to practice as an Orthodontist, you must pass the National Board Dental Examination and earn certification from the American Board of Orthodontics. It's a long journey, but the ability to transform someone's smile and boost their confidence makes it all worthwhile!
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