ortodontian

An ortodontian, more commonly called an orthodontist in English, is a dental professional who specializes in diagnosing, preventing, and treating malocclusions and other irregularities of the teeth and jaws. Orthodontists develop treatment plans to align teeth and improve bite function, aesthetics, and overall oral health. They use appliances such as fixed braces, removable aligners, expanders, and headgear, and may coordinate with oral surgeons for cases involving jaw discrepancies. Treatment can be started in childhood or adulthood, depending on the condition. In English-language clinical use, the standard term is orthodontist.

Education and practice: After earning a dental degree (DDS or DMD), an aspiring orthodontist completes a postgraduate specialty program in orthodontics, typically two to three years, focusing on diagnosis, biomechanics, growth and development, and appliance fabrication. In many countries, board certification from a national or international orthodontic board is available or required. Orthodontists work in private practices, clinics, hospitals, or academic settings, and collaborate with general dentists and other specialists to manage complex cases. They employ diagnostic tools such as X-rays, photographs, dental impressions or digital scans, and treatment planning software to tailor approaches to individual needs. The field also encompasses interceptive orthodontics in children and adult orthodontics, as well as allied areas like dentofacial orthopedics when skeletal factors influence treatment.