What an orthodontist does is a dentistry field that deals specifically with the diagnosis, treatment, and correction of crooked, mal-aligned teeth and jaw lines, and other misaligned bite patterns known as orthodontics. It can also deal with the modification of overall facial development, called dentofacial Orthopedics. This type of dentistry focuses on making your teeth look their best so they will be functional when you eat food. An orthodontist Raleigh NC can perform various treatments such as braces, appliances, dentures, bonding, gum lifts, veneers, bridges, crowns, and more.

Most orthodontists received their formal training in dental medicine and continue on to receive additional education in their field. However, many dentists decide to specialize. Specializing allows them to focus on one particular facet of the field. For example, orthodontists that specialize in pediatrics focus on treating children’s dental issues.

To become an orthodontist, you have to complete a four-year degree at an accredited university. This program will typically consist of a science, math, humanities, or psychology coursework. The length of time to complete this program varies based on the number of credits per semester or year. The average time it takes to earn a four-year degree from an accredited university is two years.

After completing your four years of dental school, you will need to pass aboard and clinical examinations administered by your local board of examiners. Then you will need to participate in supervised clinical training for a period of up to one year. During the clinical training, you will be taught how to diagnose patients, how to evaluate the strength and shape of a patient’s teeth, how to perform preventative treatments, how to correct teeth alignment, and the basics of orthodontic treatment such as braces, appliances, extractions, bonding, etc. The exact curriculum may vary slightly from program to program, but the general framework is similar. Once you complete your training requirements, you will be ready to apply to an orthodontic school to get certified.

Finally, becoming an orthodontist involves obtaining an actual license to practice. To do this, you will need to pass the state boards of dental medicine and orthodontics. Each state has slightly different licensing requirements, so it is important to discuss the specific requirements with a local board of examiners. Once you are licensed, you can look for available positions in your area through the Australian Society for Dental Specialist Education and Research.

As an orthodontist, you will be responsible for evaluating and diagnosing the most common causes of tooth malocclusion. You will then work to improve the health of the jawbone by aligning the bones in the teeth and on the head. By working closely with the patient, you can help to solve the root cause of the malocclusion, not just the symptoms of the condition. In addition to correcting the physical structure of the mouth, orthodontists provide a comprehensive array of services that help to ensure that the face looks healthy, symmetrical, and appropriate.