How to become an Orthodontist
Orthodontists specialise in correcting misalignments of the teeth and jaw. They provide non-surgical treatments to alleviating a number of problems, including speech defects, chewing difficulties and poor oral hygiene.
Personal requirements for an Orthodontist
- Good hand-eye coordination
- Able to do precise and detailed work
- Good communication skills
- Able to concentrate for long periods
- Enjoy working with people
- Sympathetic and caring
Education & Training for an Orthodontist
Orthodontics is a specialisation of general dentistry and requires three years of postgraduate study. The prerequisites are an AHPRA-registered general dental degree and a minimum of two years’ clinical experience as a dentist. Contact the institutions you are interested in for more information.
Additional information
Before undertaking clinical placements required by courses, students will need to obtain a National Police Certificate, a Provide First Aid Certificate and undergo immunisations and a Working with Children Check. Students may also be required to be tested for blood-borne transmissible viruses (such as hepatitis B and HIV).
Duties & Tasks of an Orthodontist
An orthodontist:
- Examine patients’ teeth and jaws using dental equipment and X-rays
- Diagnose and treat facial and dental irregularities
- Fit and maintain dental braces to fix irregular alignments of teeth
- Design headgear and facemasks to facilitate more effective braces.
Working conditions for an Orthodontist
Orthodontists spend most of their time in an office environment, either standing or sitting whilst interacting with patients.
Employment Opportunities for an Orthodontist
Orthodontists are mostly employed in private practices, or they run their own. Some hospitals also employ orthodontists. The demand for orthodontic services depends on demographic factors, such as the size and age of the population, the general economic climate, the extent of private health cover and public awareness of new services available. Demand for dentists in the public sector depends upon government funding policies.
Specializations
Orthodontist
Orthodontists specialise in correcting misalignments of the teeth and jaw. They provide non-surgical treatments to alleviating a number of problems, including speech defects, chewing difficulties and poor oral hygiene.
