1. Bachelor's degree: The first step to becoming an orthodontist is to complete a bachelor's degree. Most orthodontists major in a science-related field, such as biology, chemistry, or physics. Some schools also offer a pre-dentistry major, which can be a helpful way to prepare for dental school.
2. Dental school: After completing a bachelor's degree, you will need to attend dental school. Dental school is a four-year program that teaches you about the diagnosis and treatment of oral health problems.
3. Orthodontics residency: After completing dental school, you will need to complete an orthodontics residency. Orthodontics residencies are typically two or three years long and provide you with the specialized training you need to become an orthodontist.
4. Board certification: After completing your orthodontics residency, you can choose to become board certified by the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO). Board certification is a voluntary process, but it can demonstrate your commitment to excellence in orthodontics.
Here is a more detailed look at the education requirements for orthodontists:
Bachelor's degree
* Most orthodontists major in a science-related field, such as biology, chemistry, or physics.
* Some schools also offer a pre-dentistry major, which can be a helpful way to prepare for dental school.
* The average cost of tuition and fees for a four-year bachelor's degree at a public college is $9,410 per year. The average cost of tuition and fees for a four-year bachelor's degree at a private college is $32,410 per year.
* Financial aid is available to help students pay for college.
Dental school
* Dental school is a four-year program that teaches you about the diagnosis and treatment of oral health problems.
* The average cost of tuition and fees for a four-year dental school program at a public university is $35,451 per year. The average cost of tuition and fees for a four-year dental school program at a private university is $58,491 per year.
* Financial aid is available to help students pay for dental school.
Orthodontics residency
* Orthodontics residencies are typically two or three years long and provide you with the specialized training you need to become an orthodontist.
* The average cost of tuition and fees for a two-year orthodontics residency program at a public university is $17,500 per year. The average cost of tuition and fees for a two-year orthodontics residency program at a private university is $35,000 per year.
* Financial aid is available to help students pay for an orthodontics residency.
Board certification
* Board certification is a voluntary process, but it can demonstrate your commitment to excellence in orthodontics.
* To become board certified, you must pass a written exam and a clinical exam.
* The American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) offers board certification to orthodontists who have met the requirements.