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Is being an orthodontist a good fit for you?

Straightens teeth and jaws, often with braces and other devices, to fix bites and improve smiles.

What the work involves

  • Diagnoses problems with teeth, jaws and the face.
  • Examines patients to check jaw growth, tooth position and other facial structures.
  • Fits braces and other devices in patients' mouths to move teeth and jaws into place.
  • Studies records like histories, tooth models, photos and x-rays to plan patient treatment.

The interests that suit it

People in this work tend to be curious and hands-on. Here is how much each of the six kinds of interest comes into it.

Hands-onStrong. Building, fixing, and working with tools, machines, animals or the outdoors.
CuriousStrong. Finding things out, solving problems, and working with ideas and data.
CreativeLow. Making things: art, writing, music, design and performance.
HelpingSome. Teaching, caring for and supporting people.
PersuadingLow. Leading, selling, and making the calls.
OrganisingSome. Keeping things in order: records, numbers and systems.

What it tends to reward

Compared with other work, this job stands out for:

  • Independence. Trusted to decide how the work gets done.
  • Mastery. Getting really good at something over time.
  • Achievement. Progress, recognition, ambitious goals.

How much training it needs

Degree required. Usually a degree, sometimes more study after. Rules differ from country to country, so check locally before you commit.

Find out if it fits you

Answer quick questions about what you like doing and what keeps you going. We match you with roles from over 900 kinds of work, and you can see if an orthodontist is one of yours.

Free. About 15 minutes. No account.

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