Is It Possible to Be Both a General Dentist and an Orthodontist?
Is It Possible to Be Both a General Dentist and an Orthodontist?
Is it
Is It Possible to Be Both a General Dentist and an Orthodontist?
Is it possible for a dentist to be both a general dentist and an orthodontist? The answer is yes, but it requires a significant investment in additional education and training. This article will explore the paths to becoming both a general dentist and an orthodontist, detailing the educational requirements, personal experiences, and the realities of such a career path.General Dentistry
A general dentist, after completing a dental degree (DDS or DMD), is well-equipped to provide a broad spectrum of dental care, including preventive, restorative, and some cosmetic treatments. This profession is crucial for maintaining the overall oral health of patients. General dentists often perform procedures such as teeth cleaning, fillings, root canals, and dentures, among others.Becoming an Orthodontist
To specialize in orthodontics, a dentist must undertake an additional residency program after obtaining their dental degree. This specialized training typically involves an additional 2-3 years of focused study, with the primary goal of diagnosing and treating dental and facial irregularities. During this training, dentists learn the unique skills required to manage tooth movement, orthodontics, and guide facial development (dento-facial orthopedics). Successful completion of this program allows the dentist to practice orthodontics and address conditions such as crooked teeth, bite issues, and jaw abnormalities.Real-World Perspective
A unique insight into the feasibility of being both a general dentist and an orthodontist comes from a personal experience. Last year, I worked in a general dentist’s office for a month where the dentist, an individual with over 18 months of additional training, dedicated approximately 50% of his practice to orthodontics. This demonstrates that with extensive specialized training, it is indeed possible for a general dentist to also provide orthodontic services.Education and Commitment
Becoming an orthodontist involves three key steps: college, dental school, and an orthodontic residency program. While it is technically possible to become both a general dentist and an orthodontist, many dentists decide to specialize in one area. According to my own experience, it can take around 10 or more years of education after high school to become an orthodontist. Prospective orthodontists must first complete college, followed by dental school, and then attend an accredited orthodontic residency program. This program requires at least two years of additional study, where dentists learn skills specific to managing tooth movement, orthodontics, and guiding facial development.The Challenges and Benefits
The decision to be both a general dentist and an orthodontist comes with its own set of challenges. A dentist who has completed the necessary orthodontic residency often finds that their skills in orthodontic treatment are significantly enhanced. As they gain more clinical experience and stay updated with continuing education, their ability to handle complex cases becomes more sophisticated. However, it is not uncommon to find that those who specialize in orthodontics after completing a three-year orthodontic Masters program do not wish to pursue general dentistry.For instance, after completing my three-year orthodontic Masters program, I found that I was no longer comfortable performing procedures like crown preparations or even simple Class 2 fillings. The expertise and focus gained in orthodontics made me realize that this area was my true calling. Personally, I would not recommend anyone to undergo orthodontic treatment from a general dentist who did not undergo dedicated orthodontic training.