Orthodontists

One way to learn more about the field is to talk to an orthodontist to learn about this work. Ask your dentist, check the phone book or Internet, or contact the American Association of Orthodontists to see if there is an orthodontist in your area who would be willing to speak with you. You can then line up an information interview with this person. Check with nearby dental schools to see if they offer any kind of student programs about dentistry. If they do not have such a program, see if you can take a tour of the school or talk to teachers or students about the dental school. For some hands-on experience, try to get a part-time job (maybe as a receptionist or clerical assistant) at an orthodontist's office. If that is not possible, look for a part-time job at a general dentist's office. Working in such a setting will give you an idea of what to expect in the broad field of dentistry.