Most orthodontists have reasonable working hours, usually working 35 to 40 hours a week for four or five days. Occasionally, you may need to see patients beyond normal business hours for special appointments or emergency procedures. In a typical workweek as an orthodontist, you can expect to work less than 40 hours per week. Although the demand for orthodontists is high, many orthodontists enjoy a light and flexible schedule.
There is little chance of an orthodontist visiting your patients in an emergency or other last-minute scenario. As such, orthodontists primarily see patients who have an appointment. Starting your own orthodontic office is financially risky and a demanding life path, but a successful personal practice can result in much higher salaries and work flexibility, especially if your office expands by hiring more orthodontists. Regardless of which path they choose, it's important for orthodontists to stay up to date with the latest techniques and technologies.
Becoming an orthodontist requires a great deal of time, money and effort, but orthodontists consistently rate their career choice highly. Orthodontists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of jaw and face irregularities affecting the teeth and jaws. Orthodontists are licensed dentists who specialize in the art of properly aligning teeth for better oral health, better overall health, a more effective and comfortable bite, and greater confidence in the smile. Therefore, orthodontists are the key to helping patients identify why teeth and jaw muscles contribute to tooth decay or problems in the neck and spine.
While dentists are legally authorized to perform orthodontic procedures and treatments, orthodontic residency provides more in-depth and extended training in this complex art, and many employers require completing an orthodontic residency to work as a licensed orthodontist. An orthodontist can open or close your business earlier than usual or close the business for a day, a week, or more. Because straight teeth and healthy smiles are always in demand, orthodontists enjoy sunny job prospects for the immediate future. As technology advances, it is becoming more and more common for orthodontists to use electronic devices in their practice.
Orthodontists will need to keep up to date on these advances to maintain their relevant skills and maintain a competitive advantage in the workplace. If the general dentist doesn't keep proper records, the orthodontist can be legally guilty even years after leaving work for office failures. For example, a new orthodontist trying to develop their business might work long hours every day, consistently putting in more than 40 hours a week. In addition to their regular day, orthodontists also coordinate orthodontic services with other dental and medical services.
On a weekly or monthly basis, orthodontists design and manufacture appliances, such as space maintainers, retainers, and labial and lingual arches.