What degree do you need to be an orthodontist?

Dental school coursework can cover a wide array of subjects and topic areas, including some that are specific to orthodontia. Some of the main topics include:

• Oral health

• Dental practice competency

• Clinical practice competency

• Dental anatomy and occlusion

• Types of dental practices

• Pediatric dentistry

• Dentistry materials

• Ethics and legal considerations

• Physiology

• Microbiology

• Periodontics

• Prosthodontics

• Maxillofacial surgery

During the last 2 years of dental school you are required to gain practical experience working in a clinic. During this time, you will be supervised by a practicing orthodontist. This will allow you to observe, learn various techniques, and practice your skills before becoming a practicing orthodontist yourself.

After obtaining your degree, you will be required to take the National Board of Dental Examinations state and clinical tests. If you pass these tests, you will be eligible to apply for your state dental license.

After dental school, orthodontists are required to complete an orthodontic residency program. During this program, you will learn common orthodontic practices under the supervision of a practicing orthodontist. Some things you may learn include:

• Application of corrective treatment

• Facial surgery

• Understanding how teeth move

After your residency program, you can seek board certification. This means passing the American Board of Orthodontics exam, which includes both written and oral exams. If you pass, you are granted a certification and the ability to practice as an orthodontist. You will need to maintain your certification by taking a renewal exam every 10 years.