교정 전문의

근무 일정

Orthodontists typically work full-time in private practices, dental offices, or specialty clinics. They focus on treating patients but may also manage administrative and business-related duties.

일반적인 업무

• Conduct initial consults with patients to review their concerns and goals and go over costs and payment options.

1. Note, the average cost of braces ranges from $3,000 to $10,000. Not all patients have insurance that will cover the total costs, so many orthodontic clinics offer no-interest payment plans.

• Use diagnostic tools like X-rays, 3D scans, and photographs to assess dental issues that need to be addressed.
• Diagnose malocclusions (improper bites) and other orthodontic problems.
• Develop detailed, customized treatment plans for correcting irregularities.
• Take impressions and digital scans of patients’ teeth for appliance fabrication.
• Fit orthodontic appliances such as braces, aligners, and expanders over the patient’s teeth.
• Adjust appliances as needed during follow-up visits.
• Educate patients on the importance of maintaining oral hygiene during orthodontic care.
• Monitor treatment progress and adjust as needed.
• Recommend the use of removable or fixed retainers to maintain teeth alignment after treatment.
• Because orthodontic treatment takes so long and is expensive, the long-term use of retainers is often suggested to keep teeth from shifting out of proper position.

Additional Duties

• Review patient treatment charts before appointments and update records afterward.
• Use software to design and simulate orthodontic treatment outcomes.
• Train and supervise assistants and other staff.
• Ensure instruments are sterilized and maintained.
• Keep up to date on advancements in orthodontic techniques, materials, and technology.
• Collaborate with oral surgeons as needed.
• Manage business-related duties, if in private practice, such as accounting, paying taxes, marketing, office management, human resources tasks, etc.

소프트 스킬

• 디테일에 대한 관심
• 침대 옆 매너
• 비즈니스 통찰력 및 마케팅 기술(개인 사업자를 위한)
• 커뮤니케이션
• 평정심
• 고객 서비스
• 신뢰성
• 민첩성
• 부지런함
• 공감
• 초점
• 손과 눈의 협응력
• 체계적
• 관찰력
• 조직 기술
• 인내심
• 문제 해결
• 안전 의식
• 올바른 판단
• 팀워크
• 시간 관리

기술 능력

Orthodontists need hard skills related to the following:

• 3D imaging and digital diagnostics, such as cone-beam computed tomography and intraoral scanners
• Dental radiology (taking and analyzing orthodontic X-rays and panoramic imaging)
• Infection control and sterilization standards
• Knowledge of applicable regulations
• Knowledge of dental anatomy and biomechanics, such as understanding tooth movement and jaw structure
• Medical record-keeping
• Orthodontic appliance fitting and adjustments (i.e., braces, aligners, retainers, and expanders)
• Orthodontic procedures (applying braces, bonding brackets, and placing retainers)
• Orthodontic software like Invisalign ClinCheck, OrthoCAD, or Dolphin Imaging
• Patient care protocols
• Taking dental impressions and digital scanning to create molds or digital models for appliance fabrication
• Treatment planning using diagnostic tools to create detailed plans for teeth and jaw alignment

• Private practices
• Multi-speciality dental clinics
• Community health clinics
• 병원
• Colleges
• Military branches
• Research labs
• 비영리 단체
• Orthodontic equipment companies

Orthodontists must complete several years of rigorous education and specialized training, including undergraduate studies, dental school, and a residency in orthodontics. This extended period of education can result in a lot of student debt that can take years to repay.

Once in practice, Orthodontists have to maintain a high level of precision and attention to detail. Patients rely on their ability to accurately diagnose and treat complex dental issues where even minor errors can lead to costly or painful consequences. Even after graduating, Orthodontists must continue to stay updated with advancements in orthodontic techniques and technologies.

Orthodontists in private practice are not only healthcare providers but also business owners! They have to manage or oversee finances, marketing, hiring and training staff, and ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations. They’ve also got to maintain liability insurance in case of a malpractice claim.

All this work naturally requires long hours which can take a toll on their work-life balance. However, the job can be financially rewarding, especially for those who run successful practices. In addition, Orthodontists have the satisfaction of improving patients’ oral health and overall quality of life. 

Trends in the orthodontics field include new applications like clear aligners, high-tech 3D imaging tools, and even AI-driven software to streamline workflows and improve patient outcomes. Devices like vibration-based accelerators and advanced wires speed up tooth movement, while 3D printing is enabling faster creation of custom appliances like aligners and retainers.

Teleorthodontics has expanded access to care, allowing remote consultations and monitoring for patients in underserved areas. Meanwhile, early intervention efforts with pediatric dentists are helping to address issues like jaw misalignment before they become more serious and require invasive treatments. Finally, sustainable practices are gaining traction with many offices adopting eco-friendly products and waste reduction strategies.

Orthodontists often share an early interest in science, particularly biology and health. They may have enjoyed hands-on activities, such as crafts or hobbies requiring fine motor skills.