How to Become an Orthodontist

Orthodontists do much more than simply put on braces; oral surgery, reconstruction and therapy are a large part of an orthodontist's duties. Becoming an orthodontist is not only a lucrative and rewarding career choice; but, it can make a difference in the way people feel about themselves for their entire lives.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Money
• Time
• Dedication

1. Earn a Bachelor's degree. You must have a Bachelor's or Master's degree to enter dental school; nursing or medical science is a good choice for this degree.

2. Enroll in a dental college to attain your DDS (Doctor of Dental Science). This will take four years of studying biology, social sciences, anatomy as they relate to dental health.

3. Pass the Dental Admissions Test. This test certifies that you have the necessary skills to become a practicing dentist; no dentist is allowed to operate a practice without passing this exam.

4. Enroll in a Science of Orthodontics course. This will take an additional two to three years. This course will begin teaching you the arts of your chosen profession.

5. Pass the College of Dentists Board examination. Most countries have an equivalent body that sets policy, accepts new practitioners and meets out punishment for infractions.

6. Start a practice.

Tips & Warnings

• It takes an entire team to run an orthodontist's office properly. Orthodontic teams are made up of highly trained individuals that assist the orthodontist in a number of ways from chairside assisting to office administration.
• Becoming an orthodontist takes years of dedication and hard work. You will spend a long time in school before you see your first patient.

Resources

• Information regarding dentists and orthodontists
• Orthodontist and dentistry overview