Orthodontists are qualified dentists, who after graduating from dental school, go on to additional full-time university-based education in an accredited orthodontic residency program supervised by orthodontists. That training lasts at least two to three academic years—sometimes more. By learning about tooth movement (orthodontics) and guidance of facial development (dentofacial orthopedics), orthodontists are the uniquely educated experts in dentistry to straighten teeth and align jaws.
Orthodontists diagnose, prevent and treat dental and facial irregularities. Orthodontists limit their practices to orthodontics. That means that orthodontic treatment is what they do, and that is all they do.
Selecting an orthodontist who is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) is your assurance that you have chosen a licensed orthodontist.
