Becoming an Orthodontist

Orthodontics is the practice of correcting the regularly developing teeth and jaws by using devices such as braces as well as other corrective dental appliances. Orthodontists are fully qualified dentists who have chosen to specialize in the particular branch of dentistry and have undertaken additional study.

The job:

Many general dental surgeons or dentists perform simple or routine orthodontic work, while others prefer to refer patients to orthodontists. Dentists will always refer more complicated cases to orthodontists. Teeth growing in a crooked fashion, a mouth overcrowded with too many developing teeth, first teeth that have not fallen out and the adult teeth are growing in a stunted fashion behind them are all conditions that can be corrected by orthodontists. They also treat adults who come to them. For example, adults may be embarrassed by crooked teeth that were not corrected in childhood. The majority of orthodontists' patients are, however, children.

Orthodontists examine their patients' mouths, referring to any accompanying case notes, and had x-rays taken if this has not already been done. They then discuss possible treatments and the length of time it may be necessary for corrective appliances to be worn. If the patient is a child, then usually the parent will also be part of the discussion.

They take plaster casts of mouths, and send these to a dental laboratory so that technicians there can construct a perfectly fitting corrective appliance. When the appliance is delivered by the laboratory, the orthodontists arranges another appointment with the patient, the appliance, and explains its use-whether it is to be worn all day or for a certain number of hours, how to clean and care for it, and how to make any adjustments. A brace may have to be adjusted at regular intervals, for example, as the teeth begin to respond and change the direction of growth.

Orthodontists need to be persuasive, since most children object to wearing braces because of teasing from other children. They may also find braces uncomfortable and find excuses not to wear them. Orthodontists must take care to warn parents to monitor the situation carefully.

Orthodontists working clean and comfortable surgeries or clinics attached to hospitals. Their hours of work are regular, although some, especially those in private practice, may offer a service at weekends.

Training involved:

Orthodontists first qualify as dentists. They then undertake further study at postgraduate level, which includes clinical practice in hospitals. In some countries, orthodontists, as well as all other specialist dentists, must pass specialty board examinations in order to become certified and be allowed to practice.

Salary Expectations:

The base salary range of a Orthodontist range from $94,423 to $201,433 annually, while the median salary for most Orthodontists is $145,000 annually. (US Base Pay)

Future prospects:

This is a fairly stable branch of dentistry to working, since many more parents are not aware that children's dental problems can be treated if they are corrected early enough. All dental specialisms are small, however, compared with the number of dentists employed in general practice, so it remains a competitive field.

Orthodontists work in dental hospitals and in private practice.

For further information, please contact organizations such as a national dental Association or a general dental Council.