How Many Years Does It Take to Become a Orthodontist?
Orthodontists specialize in diagnosing, treating and preventing dental irregularities. These dentists use braces and other devices to improve function and appearance of the teeth and jaw. Becoming an orthodontist requires many years of education beyond high school. The time should be well-spent, as orthodontists were earning an average of over $200,000 per year as of May 2009, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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Job Features
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Orthodontists apply braces, retainers and other implements to correct teeth crowding, gaps between teeth and crooked or protruding teeth. These dentists also correct irregularities involving the jaws and lower face, such as underbites and overbites. The corrective actions bring the teeth, lips and jaws into proper alignment.
Undergraduate Degree
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Aspiring orthodontists usually begin by completing a bachelor of science degree, which traditionally takes four years. They typically follow a pre-dental or pre-medical track, majoring in a science such as biology or chemistry. These students may obtain any major, however, as long as they complete the required science coursework for admission to dental school. A small percentage of dental school applicants are admitted after two or three years of college and complete their bachelor's degree while attending dental school, explains the BLS.
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Dental School
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After completing undergraduate work, the student attends a dental school accredited by the American Dental Association. These programs last three to five years, reports Sport Safety, a website affiliated with the American Association of Orthodontists. Classroom and laboratory courses include anatomy, physiology, microbiology, biochemistry and clinical dentistry. During the last two years, students treat clients under the supervision of licensed dentists. On successful completion of dental school, the student is awarded a doctor of dental surgery (DDS) or doctor of dental medicine (DDM) degree. The degree is the same even though the titles are different.
Specialization
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The new dentist can begin general practice after acquiring a state license to practice or can choose to specialize by obtaining additional education. Many work in general practice before returning to school. To become an orthodontist, a dentist completes a residency program in orthodontics accredited by the American Dental Association. This program lasts two to three years.
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References
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