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Velvet Digest

How long does it take to become an orthodontist?

Author

Christopher Harper

Updated on April 30, 2026

It can take up to ten years to become an orthodontist. When you break down the amount of school it takes, you will find that the four years for the degree, the four years at dental school, and the additional two years in a residency program will make up this time.

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Also to know is, what does it take to become an orthodontist?

In order to become an orthodontist, students need to complete four years of dental school. Coursework in dental school includes anatomy, physiology and microbiology, as well as classes that apply more specifically to orthodontics, such as dental anatomy and occlusion, pediatric dentistry and dental materials.

Beside above, how much money does an orthodontist make? Salaries. The nation's 5,530 orthodontists averaged $186,320 per year, as of May 2012, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). However, salaries fell to less than $67,530 for the lowest-earning 10 percent.

Similarly, it is asked, is it hard to become an orthodontist?

Of course it is hard work and does take more schooling than just four years of college, but it is also a great opportunity for bright young minds to learn and explore a fast paced career with endless benefits. The first step in becoming an orthodontist is to complete a bachelor's degree.

Is orthodontist a good job?

Additionally, orthodontists need to have good judgment and strong problem-solving skills. Since orthodontist often treat children and teens, they should be comfortable caring for patients of all ages. Salary. Most orthodontists work in private practice or as part of a dental group.

Related Question Answers

Is it easy to find a job as an orthodontist?

Being an orthodontist can be a very rewarding and lucrative career, however, the path is not an easy one. Orthodontists are their own bosses and they are very respected members of the community. They work flexible hours and many orthodontists even choose only to work three or four days a week.

What GPA do you need to be an orthodontist?

But, concerning orthodontic residency, research has shown that the average GPA for orthodontic postgrads is between 3.44 and 3.8. For foreign students, there are even more requirements, such as TOEFL or some other proof of English proficiency.

Is it hard to get into dental school?

It's difficult to get into dental school without some kind of bachelor's degree (it's technically possible, but highly unlikely). In fact, most dental schools like to see some variety in an applicant's coursework, although they'd like to see a few more science courses sprinkled throughout the transcript.

What do Orthodontists major in?

Required pre-dental courses generally include chemistry, biology, physics and other science courses. You can choose to major in any subject, but since science courses are required anyway, many pre-dental students choose to major in a science, such as biology or chemistry.

How much money does an orthodontist make per hour?

Hourly Wage for Orthodontist Salary. How much does an Orthodontist make hourly in the United States? The average hourly wage for an Orthodontist in the United States is $67 as of December 26, 2019, but the range typically falls between $55 and $82.

Is being an orthodontist stressful?

The job of an orthodontist is ranked as low stress. The job of an orthodontists assistant falls under the same category as a dental hygienist and dental assistant, which are ranked as having an average stress level.

How many hours do orthodontists work?

Work hours are flexible, and orthodontists may adjust their schedules in order to meet the needs of their patients and themselves. This may involve working in the evenings and during weekends. Full-time orthodontists usually work 35 to 40 hours every week. Some even continue with part-time practice post-retirement.

How much does it cost to go to orthodontics school?

Before entering into dental school, students must earn a 4-year bachelor's degree. They then enter a 4-year dentistry program. Completing a full dentistry program can cost approximately $166,240 to more than $300,000, depending on the school.

Are Orthodontists in demand?

"It's really one of the most wonderful parts of the job." Orthodontists rely on the use of braces, retainers and other appliances to rectify bites and straighten teeth. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 19.3 percent employment growth for orthodontists between 2016 and 2026.

What classes should I take in highschool to become an orthodontist?

High School Taking science courses such as anatomy, biology and chemistry will help to build a foundation for more advanced studies in college. Mathematics classes are also beneficial, and students should advance as far as they can in this area.

How hard is orthodontist school?

Becoming an orthodontist is a long road through school. It usually takes approximately 12 years of formal university education to become a certified specialist in orthodontics! Your university career will begin with a four-year bachelor's degree, usually a Bachelor of Science degree.

What are the benefits of being an orthodontist?

The benefits of orthodontic treatment include a healthier mouth, a more pleasing appearance, and teeth that are more likely to last a lifetime. Orthodontic treatment can improve your dental health and change your facial appearance for the better, and it can boost your self-esteem.

Where do orthodontists work?

Orthodontists work in well-lit offices or clinics. The average orthodontist works approximately 30-40 hours per week. Working conditions are generally pleasant with no expectation of being on call or working nights as some healthcare professionals do.

What is the best major for an orthodontist?

Bachelor's Degree in Biology Majoring in biology provides essential training in the life sciences, which is necessary to move on to professional schools in dentistry, pharmacy, medicine or veterinary science. The curriculum mainly comprises of courses in biology, chemistry and physics.

What is being an orthodontist like?

Orthodontists examine, diagnose, and treat dental malocclusions and oral cavity anomalies. Design and fabricate appliances to realign teeth and jaws to produce and maintain normal function and to improve appearance. We asked Orthodontists how satisfied they are with their job.

Can a dental hygienist become an orthodontist?

Experienced dental hygienists can progress to become practice managers, teach on training courses, or decide to develop further skills such as sedation training or tooth whitening to a dentist's prescription. Some may decide to work as orthodontic therapists.

What state do orthodontist make the most money?

The top paying states are Wisconsin, Minnesota, Kansas, Colorado, and Arizona. All five states report earnings greater than $188,000 for the highest paid orthodontists.

Who makes more money dentist or orthodontist?

Dentists and orthodontists are two of the highest-paying professions in the United States. Orthodontists earned a mean annual wage of $204,670 in 2011, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Dentists earned a mean annual wage of $161,750 that year.

How much does an orthodontist make their first year?

An entry-level Orthodontist with less than 1 year experience can expect to earn an average total compensation (includes tips, bonus, and overtime pay) of $151,246 based on 46 salaries. An early career Orthodontist with 1-4 years of experience earns an average total compensation of $165,322 based on 134 salaries.