Orthodontists
Overview
Orthodontists are dental specialists who help people achieve straight, healthy smiles by designing and fitting braces, retainers, and other dental appliances. They use advanced technology like digital X-rays, 3D imaging, and computer modeling to study patients' teeth and jaw structures, then create personalized treatment plans to gradually move teeth into proper alignment. This career requires strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and excellent communication abilities, plus completing dental school followed by specialized orthodontic training. Many orthodontists work in modern practices with flexible schedules and collaborate with other dental professionals to provide comprehensive patient care.
Did you know?
Becoming an orthodontist requires 10-11 years of post-secondary education including dental school and specialized orthodontic residency, representing significant time and financial commitment before earning income.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$165,764 Avg/yr
Growth
Fast Growing
Top Skill
Judgment and Decision Making
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare diagnostic and treatment records.
- Fit dental appliances in patients' mouths to alter the position and relationship of teeth and jaws or to realign teeth.
- Examine patients to assess abnormalities of jaw development, tooth position, and other dental-facial structures.
- Provide patients with proposed treatment plans and cost estimates.
- Study diagnostic records, such as medical or dental histories, plaster models of the teeth, photos of a patient's face and teeth, and X-rays, to develop patient treatment plans.
- Instruct dental officers and technical assistants in orthodontic procedures and techniques.
- Design and fabricate appliances, such as space maintainers, retainers, and labial and lingual arch wires.
- Coordinate orthodontic services with other dental and medical services.
- Adjust dental appliances to produce and maintain normal function.
- Advise patients to comply with treatment plans.
- Diagnose teeth and jaw or other dental-facial abnormalities.
Career Considerations
Extensive Educational Investment
Becoming an orthodontist requires 10-11 years of post-secondary education including dental school and specialized orthodontic residency, representing significant time and financial commitment before earning income.
High Income with Business Management Responsibilities
While orthodontists typically earn substantial salaries in the US, many operate private practices requiring business acumen, staff management, and navigation of complex insurance reimbursement systems.
Ongoing Licensing and Technology Adaptation
Orthodontists must maintain state dental licenses, complete continuing education requirements, and stay current with rapidly evolving digital technologies like 3D imaging and clear aligner systems.