Orthodontists are highly qualified professionals who are experts in the field of dentistry. Most orthodontists have a dental degree. They need to complete a minimum of three years of education at a dental school after high school and they may complete four years of dental school.
They are also licensed to practice dentistry in any state in the U.S., and must pass the American Board of Orthodontics examination and an ethics examination before being admitted to practice orthodontics.
A doctor of dental surgery may be the first choice for those who want to treat patients’ teeth without going through the lengthy process of becoming an Orthodontist. These dental specialists are highly trained dentists who provide general dental care as well as orthodontic services.
In the case of both general dentist and orthodontists, their main responsibility is to make sure that the teeth, gums and jaw function in a healthy manner.
They diagnose different problems in the mouth and make recommendations for proper treatment, including the use of braces or other corrective devices.
An orthodontist also recommends the best ways to correct malocclusion or crooked teeth. The orthodontist will also examine the bite and check for the presence of tooth decay or gum disease.