Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on the growth and development of the teeth and jaws.
An orthodontist helps patients with issues such as crooked teeth, crowding, gaps between teeth, bite problems, and TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders.
Orthodontists may work in private practice, schools, or hospitals, as well as for public health services. They often work closely with other dental specialists such as endodontists (root canal specialists) or oral surgeons (bone and gum specialists).
There are several ways to become an orthodontist.
1. Take Your First Step
If you want to become an orthodontist, the very first thing you should do is get a certification. Pre-dental programs will give you a head start on your education and prepare you for the rigors of dental school.
Orthodontic assistant certification is a credential that can be earned through a variety of routes. You can go to in-person classes, take online courses, and even get on-the-job training.
Also, you learn about things such as the different types of braces available. Even though there are many types of braces available today, not all are suitable for every patient’s needs.
important for you to understand which ones are best for each individual patient so that you can make sure that they get the proper treatment.
2. Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology or Other Science-Related Fields
Another step to becoming an orthodontist is to earn a bachelor’s degree in biology or another related field. Students should take courses in human anatomy and physiology, organic chemistry, biochemistry, and calculus.
After graduating from college, students should apply to an accredited dental school. After completing four years of undergraduate studies, you can apply to an accredited dental school.
The application process includes taking the Dental Admission Test (DAT), which consists of multiple-choice questions regarding dental knowledge. To be accepted into a dental school, you must have at least a 3.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale and good scores on the MCAT exam.
Once you’re accepted into a dental school program, you’ll spend about five years studying general dentistry as well as specialized courses in orthodontics.
After completing your degree requirements, you will be eligible to take the National Board Dental Examination Part III exam.
3. Become an Intern at a Hospital or Clinic
Becoming an orthodontic assistant is one of the easiest ways to break into the field. It’s also one of the most affordable paths since there are no formal education requirements.
You’ll shadow orthodontists and sometimes work as an assistant on patients’ teeth. This will give you hands-on experience with orthodontics, which is helpful when applying for dental school.
However, becoming certified as an orthodontist takes years of training and experience — so this route isn’t for everyone.
4. Complete a Residency Program in Orthodontics
The length of these programs varies by state, but they generally last between two and three years. During this time, residents receive advanced training in all aspects of orthodontics and learn how to diagnose, treat, and prevent malocclusions (bad bites).
Orthodontic residency programs usually include rotations through general dentistry practices as well as specialty practices such as oral surgery, periodontics, and pediatric dentistry. These rotations expose residents to a variety of specialties, allowing them to choose which one they want to pursue professionally after graduation.
It’s also important for residents to gain experience treating patients with various types of malocclusion because they may not encounter every type during their career as an orthodontist.
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5. Become a Volunteer at an Orthodontic Office
Volunteering at an orthodontic office is a great way to get your foot in the door. If you’re considering a career in orthodontics, volunteering at an orthodontic office is a way to gain experience. You’ll get to see what it’s like to work with patients on a daily basis and learn about the different components of the practice.
Volunteering can also help you decide whether you want to pursue orthodontics as a career path. If you’re interested in working with patients but don’t think that an orthodontist’s office is the right place for you, then volunteering will help you make a more informed decision about your future.
If you’ve already decided that orthodontics is the right field for you, volunteering will give you exposure to all aspects of the profession so that you’ll be prepared when it’s time to enter this field full-time.
Image Credit: by envato.com
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