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How Long Does It Take To Become an Orthodontist?

How Long Does It Take To Become an Orthodontist?

Vandana KatyalDr Katyal’s Publications, General

If you’ve landed on this page, it’s likely you want to know How Long Does It Take To Become an Orthodontist in Australia.

In Australia, millions of individuals face oral health challenges, making the role of orthodontists crucial. This profession is not only about improving smiles; it’s a unique blend of artistic vision and analytical precision, offering a rewarding career with a competitive salary and a balanced lifestyle.

The journey to becoming an orthodontist is both challenging and fulfilling. It usually spans about 9 to 10 years, encompassing university education, dental school, and a specialized orthodontics residency. This path requires not just dedication but a deep passion for learning and helping others.

So, exactly how long does it take to become an orthodontist?

Let’s explore each stage in detail:

Undergraduate Study (3 Years)
The first step involves completing prerequisite courses in biology and chemistry. Most students pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in these fields, laying a solid foundation for advanced study. It’s important to check specific admission requirements on university websites.

Dental School (4 Years)
Following undergraduate studies, the next phase is a comprehensive dental school program. Lasting typically four years, it focuses on building a strong base in dental medicine and hands-on clinical practices. Graduates earn a Bachelor’s degree in dental surgery. They then choose between a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree.

Orthodontics Residency (3 Years)
The final educational phase is a rigorous residency program in orthodontics. This program sharpens clinical examination skills, diagnostic accuracy, and the management of dentofacial orthopaedics. It’s an intensive period, essential for gaining deep knowledge and practical expertise in orthodontics.

Additionally, orthodontists must develop key soft skills such as patience, exceptional communication abilities (particularly with children and teenagers, who form a large part of their clientele), and the skill to simplify complex dental concepts for patients. Furthermore, obtaining a separate orthodontics license is a crucial step, usually requiring the passing of a specialized exam.

After completing their education and obtaining licensure, orthodontists have a wide range of opportunities. They can join established practices, start their own clinics, or even venture into academic and research roles in the field of orthodontics.

For those who are intrigued by this rewarding career path and wish to embark on this transformative journey, our comprehensive orthodontics courses offer the perfect starting point.

For more information you can also visit the Australian Dental Association’s website. It provides additional information about the profession, educational pathways, and licensing requirements in Australia.

 

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What People Are Saying

  • I completed the BOSS UK Diploma in 2021 and when it became available, signed up for the AU course as well. I completed the AU course at the end of last year and can honestly say BOSS (now Digital Orthodontic College) has completely changed my approach to clear aligner treatments and increased my confidence with treatment planning immensely. The fact that the course is 100% online was a huge drawcard for me initially since I have two young children, work clinically part-time and run my own business. It allowed me the flexibility to study when I had the chance and didn’t result in any loss of clinical time. Dr V is extremely passionate about orthodontics and more importantly sharing her wisdom and that comes through in her approach to teaching. The course is extremely comprehensive (NB: the AU course has quite a few complex assessments) and covers everything starting from the basics of tooth movement, which sets a good foundation and is therefore suitable even for beginners. The monthly/bimonthly webinars allow students to share cases and is a safe space, non-judgmental and therefore an incredible learning platform. I had been doing clear aligner treatments prior to starting this course, but BOSS helped me see patients with new eyes and has overhauled my treatment planning approach. I would not hesitate to recommend this course to anyone interested in learning, or to extend their knowledge about, clear aligner treatments.

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    Dr Lora Banicevic, Dentist NSW

  • The Australian accredited 10905NAT Graduate Diploma of Digital Orthodontic Treatment offers comprehensive training in the field, gives the candidate the opportunity to do things in a self-paced manner, while getting a personalised 1-on-1 learning experience with Dr Vandana Katyal. It was an excellent choice for me and gave me the flexibility to get the well-designed training done in my own time frame. I would strongly recommend the course to any practitioners who is looking to upskill themselves with a no-compromise high quality course, while also having to juggle between busy practices and family schedules.

    Dr Charles Sun, Dentist WA
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    Over the 18-month period, there are many opportunities to have your cases evaluated through individual coaching sessions as well as monthly, and occasionally biweekly, webinars which is a great value. I also find the course to be excellent in terms of record keeping knowledge and case selection, which is both beneficial for medico-legal considerations. Overall, I find the course to be highly flexible, informative, and excellent value, and I would recommend it to my colleagues.
    Dr Fatemeh Vejdani, Dentist TAS
  • Received my Diploma in Digital Orthodontics from BOSS and couldn’t be more stoked! Huge shout out to Dr Vandana Katyal and the BOSS team for a wonderful year. I would recommend BOSS to every dentist no matter their level of experience with Orthodontics and clear aligners. Starting off with barely any orthodontic experience, I have commenced about 9 cases in the matter of months and BOSS gave me the confidence to predictably deliver results for my patients through clear aligners which are the future of modern orthodontics.
    Dr Sarang Sathe, Dentist NSW

  • I chose Boss’s clear aligner diploma because I wanted to know the latest evidence based practice to enhance my treatment planning and case execution. I now have a much better understanding of how to diagnose, what movements can be done and what will get me into trouble. The flexible nature of the course delivery also fit perfectly into full time work and my otherwise packed schedule. The monthly case presentation webinars are also great to not only get feedback from Dr Katyal, but also to validate your own thoughts self-assess and see how you are tracking with your learning.

    Dr Gregory Nguyễn, Dentist NSW

  • I have had the privilege of participating in a rigorous educational program that has transformed my approach to digital orthodontics. This program provides exceptional structure from day 1 and offers an abundance of educational resources accessible 24/7. The Monthly group meetings inspired and empowered me to confidently tackle more complex orthodontic cases. The online study format allowed me to learn at my own pace, in the comfort of my own home, and efficiently manage my time while balancing family and work commitments and responsibilities. Dr. Vandana Katyal, an experienced specialist in her field, has provided invaluable guidance and support, dedicating time to ensure comprehensive understanding of orthodontics. Her mentorship has been instrumental in refining my skills in analysis, treatment planning, and delivering high-quality dentistry with aligners. I strongly believe that knowledge is a valuable asset. I highly recommend investing in yourself and studying this 18-month course, it is a decision you will not regret.

    Dr Karina Burbano, Dentist NSW

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