Orthodontist Basics: Learn the Required Education for This Career

If you are not sure how much you can trust that your orthodontist is educated to perform the job, you should look into the schooling required for this job. The same goes if you are considering this kind of career. You should also look into what orthodontists have to do once they graduate, as this career is not an easy one.

The first step is to go to college to get a bachelor's degree. You can choose any major of interest to you, but science is often a good one to get a great start to this career. Choose a college that is known for having a high rate of students get into dental school, if this information is available to you. It is at least helpful to find out how many students go on to earn a graduate degree of some type. 

You then need to apply to and be accepted to dental school to become an orthodontist. This is because you first have to get a doctor of dental science, or DDS, to continue down this career path. Once you earn this degree, you can become a dentist, or of course you can continue on to become an orthodontist. To do so, though, you will have to get further schooling that specializes in orthodontics, which is usually just called a science of orthodontics class. Do not be fooled into thinking this course is easy, though, as it takes up to three years to complete. You not only have to have the proper knowledge of dentistry, but also a willingness to learn orthodontics basics, too. This will of course be followed by in-depth study of this subject, so be prepared for some difficult years in school. 

It will likely be considered all worth it, though, when you graduate and can take the necessary tests to finally become an orthodontist. For example, you have to pass an admissions test that says you can become a dentist afterward. Then, once you complete the orthodontics class, you need to pass a board exam so that you can finally practice. This means that afterward, you can either start your own practice or join an existing team of orthodontists. 

At this time, you should determine if you want to specialize in any particular services, or remain more general. For instance, you could learn a lot about Invisalign, or you could simply offer it at your practice, without knowing its entire history. You could also choose to cater to certain ages, such as kids who need braces early, or adults who want to try them out later in life. Most orthodontists, though, tend to just service people of all ages. 

If you are thinking of this career path, consider the schooling required. Then start planning for it, such as where you will apply and how you will pay for it. If, on the other hand, you just want to learn more about this field so you can really trust orthodontists, you should keep in mind how many years of school is needed by these practitioners.