Orthodontist

Orthodontists are principally accountable for the treatment of dental problems that may require braces. They are also responsible for monitoring their patients their dental health and development and typically work with several staff members to achieve this.

Orthodontists need to have exceptional analytical and problem-solving abilities to correctly identify and treat dental issues. Since the majority of orthodontists choose to establish their own practice they might be specialized in specific kinds of treatment and focus on specific patient populations. They might be required to work for long hours or split between multiple offices, therefore the ability to be flexible in their working schedules and to travel as needed are crucial. It is also crucial to keep up-to-date with the latest developments in their field.

The job of an orthodontist demands an extensive amount of education and experience. Orthodontists who are interested in becoming orthodontists must earn degree in dentistry. This is usually through completing an undergraduate course and then three years of dental education and a good performance in the Dental Admission Test. Candidates must be able to pass a state examination within the state in they plan to practice.

An Orthodontist is responsible for helping people achieve healthy and beautiful smiles by correcting dental irregularities and guiding teeth into proper alignment. The main responsibilities for an Orthodontist with 0-3 years of experience in India include:

• Conducting thorough assessments of patients' teeth and overall oral health to determine the best course of treatment.
• Developing customized treatment plans for patients that include a range of options such as braces, aligners, retainers, and other corrective appliances.
• Performing various orthodontic procedures such as placing brackets, adjusting wires, taking impressions, and monitoring progress throughout treatment.
• Communicating clearly and effectively with patients about their treatment options, expectations, and progress, while also providing support and guidance throughout the process.

Major educational qualifications required for Orthodontist are:

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology or a related subject.
• Doctor of Medical Dentistry (DMD) degree or an Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree.
• Additional studies in orthodontics that are recognized through the American Dental Association (ADA).
• A member of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO).
• Expertise in a variety of molds and orthodontic devices.
• Expertise with hand instruments (periodontal scalers cutters, band pluggers, band pluggers and pliers) and diagnostic tools (digital X-rays, 3D pictures).
• Excellent hand-eye coordination and dexterity.

Orthodontists with 0-3 years of experience in India often have a limited scope of job opportunities as most of the openings demand higher work experience. However, there are alternative roles that they can explore:

• Dental Surgeon/ Dentist: They can work in dental clinics and hospitals, catering to patients’ general dental needs.
• Dental Assistant: Work alongside dentists and orthodontists, assisting them in various procedures such as cleaning and sterilizing equipment.
• Dental Hygienist: Focuses on preventive oral care, cleaning teeth, and advising patients on healthy dental practices.
• Dental Lab Technician: Involved in creating dental prosthetics and orthodontic appliances such as dentures, braces, and crowns.

The role of Orthodontist in India is expected to see significant growth in the coming years due to the increasing demand for dental and orthodontic services. The market for orthodontic treatments is projected to grow steadily over the next ten years. According to recent research, the orthodontic market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 13.4% during the period 2021-2026. This indicates a positive trend in the demand for orthodontic services in India. Furthermore, the Orthodontist job role is expected to see an upward trend in employment opportunities with a projected increase of 19% by 2029. Overall, the future looks promising for those pursuing a career as an Orthodontist in India.