Orthodontists: Job Description, Education, Skills and Duties, Earnings and Outlook
Submitted by: paula
Job Overview One’s set of teeth is one area of the face that makes a person look good. This is the reason that people who have misaligned and malpositioned teeth consult orthodontists to correct and realign their teeth. Thousands of years ago, people are using catgut and metal bands to have a straight teeth alignment. The first braces were made of metal and then stainless steel. Technology plays a big role in making the braces look better and easier to fit. Braces are now made of ceramics, hard plastic trays and high-tech wires which are more effective, subtle and versatile.
Education, Knowledge and Trainings Required
Orthodontists should study in a dental schoo or college. To prepare for a more advanced education in this field, Calculus, Algebra, Trigonometry, Geometry, Health, Chemistry, Biology and Physics classes are helpful. Courses in History, English and Computer Science are beneficial. An applicant should complete an undergraduate college education for three to four years. It is not easy and very competitive before one can be admitted in dental school. Those with Bachelor’s degree in Biology have better chances in studying in dental schools. Operating their own business is possible in this field so taking courses in Accounting, Marketing, Management, Finance and Economics will prepare an applicant to have his own dental clinic. Dental program usually takes three to five years but they need to pass the Dental Admissions Test (DAT) first.
Skills and Abilities
Those who will practice the profession of an orthodontist by establishing their own business would need to have strong management skills. It is important to be self-motivated. Generally, orthodontist needs to have efficient work habits since they may be treating many patients. Proper and effective communication skills are important to explain to patients how to maintain healthy teeth. Hand and eye coordination is important.
Duties
Crowded or crooked teeth that need to be straightened out are the main focus of duty of an orthodontist.
Part of their job is to know the dental and medical history of the patient. They need to study the mouth of the patient for possible disease. They should know how to evaluate the health of teeth. It is their responsibility to know the shape and size of each tooth and how the teeth affects the face, lips and gums of a patient. They use x-rays which shows the status of tissues. They make casts to know the dynamics of the bite and the patients teeth. It is their duty to provide treatment plan once problem is detected.
Earnings and Job Outlook
The income of an orthodontist can be determined by their work experience and the number of patients they can accommodate on a daily basis. Those who have their own office, the income depends on the area and the number of other orthodontists who practice in that area. Since people are now more aware of their physical looks, it is expected that there will be an increased demand for orthodontists in the future.
Paula Hiz is a researcher and a human resource specialist who helps newly graduates, job applicants and post graduate professionals be aware of their job opportunities and available trainings for skills and practice upgrading.
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Word Count: 535 Date: Wed, 3 Nov 2010 Time: 8:59 PM
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