Orthodontists

Orthodontist Job Description

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.

• Diagnose teeth and jaw or other dental-facial abnormalities.
• Coordinate orthodontic services with other dental and medical services.
• Provide patients with proposed treatment plans and cost estimates.
• Examine patients to assess abnormalities of jaw development, tooth position, and other dental-facial structures.
• Adjust dental appliances to produce and maintain normal function.
• Instruct dental officers and technical assistants in orthodontic procedures and techniques.

When polled, Orthodontists say the following skills are most frequently used in their jobs:

• Active Listening:
  Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
• Speaking:
  Talking to others to convey information effectively.
• Critical Thinking:
  Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
• Complex Problem Solving:
  Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
• Judgment and Decision Making:
  Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
• Social Perceptiveness:
  Being aware of others’ reactions and understanding why they react as they do.

The salary for Orthodontists ranges between about $72,780 and $208,000 a year.

Orthodontists who work in Arkansas, Colorado, or Indiana, make the highest salaries.