Becoming an orthodontist is a long and challenging process that requires dedication and hard work. On average, it takes 10 to 11 years after graduating from high school to become an orthodontist. This includes four years of undergraduate education, four years of dental school, and two to three years of a graduate program in orthodontics. The journey to becoming an orthodontist is highly competitive.
According to the American Orthodontic Association, each orthodontic residency program has approximately one position for every 15 applicants. To increase your chances of entering this field, it is essential to graduate at the top of your class in dental school. If you are considering becoming an orthodontist, you must be prepared for a long and arduous journey. It takes commitment and a willingness to learn in order to become an orthodontist.
With hard work and determination, you can achieve your goal of becoming an orthodontist. The process of becoming an orthodontist is divided into three main stages: undergraduate education, dental school, and a graduate program in orthodontics. Each stage requires its own set of qualifications and skills.
Undergraduate Education
The first step in becoming an orthodontist is completing a four-year undergraduate degree. During this time, you should focus on taking courses related to the field of dentistry, such as biology, chemistry, physics, and anatomy. You should also take courses in psychology and sociology to gain a better understanding of human behavior.Dental School
After completing your undergraduate degree, you must attend dental school for four years.During this time, you will learn about the anatomy of the mouth and jaw, as well as how to diagnose and treat various dental conditions. You will also learn about the different types of braces and other orthodontic treatments.
Graduate Program in Orthodontics
Once you have completed dental school, you must complete a two- to three-year graduate program in orthodontics. During this time, you will gain hands-on experience with patients and learn how to properly diagnose and treat various orthodontic conditions. You will also learn how to use different types of braces and other orthodontic treatments.Conclusion
Becoming an orthodontist is a long and challenging process that requires dedication and hard work.It takes 10 to 11 years after graduating from high school to become an orthodontist. The process is highly competitive, so it is important to graduate at the top of your class in dental school. With hard work and determination, you can achieve your goal of becoming an orthodontist.