Orthodontists

There is no way to obtain direct experience in orthodontics until dental school, but in high school it's a good idea to take as many health and science classes as possible and participate in science clubs.

Orthodontists who run their own practices should be self-motivated and have strong management skills. These qualities will help them run their practices efficiently and attain maximized profitability while providing the highest quality results.

Good organizational skills and efficient work habits are essential for all orthodontists because they see so many patients, each having individual treatment issues, in a single day. In fact, several patients might be seated in orthodontic chairs at the same time, waiting for treatment. The orthodontist must move swiftly yet efficiently from one to the next.

Being an effective communicator while under time pressure is critical. One moment an orthodontist may be discussing the need for good tooth brushing with an eight-year-old patient while an adult patient is waiting for a consultation on a new treatment plan and an insurance company representative is on hold about a claim misunderstanding. Because they see a large number of patients in a day, orthodontists often do not have the luxury of spending a lot of time to make their point or explain treatment options. In addition to being good communicators, orthodontists must be good listeners. They must have good people skills. Patients want to know that their orthodontist hears and cares about their concerns.

Orthodontists like to help people. After the braces come off, most patients will feel more self-assured and confident when they speak or smile, which is one of the reasons orthodontists find satisfaction in their jobs.

Being an orthodontist is physically challenging. Manual dexterity and strength are necessary assets. Fingers, hands, wrists, and arms are in controlled motion within a small space throughout the day. There is little room for error. Keen vision and perception in three dimensions are needed to locate tiny openings and parts of only a few millimeters in size. Excellent eye-hand coordination as well as an artistic eye and the ability to judge symmetry will help when it's time to apply the braces. To prevent the back injuries that can plague orthodontists as they lean over patients all day, it's important that orthodontists take the time to stretch during the day and exercise regularly.