5 answers
8
Asked 2528 views

I want to become an Orthodontist and I was thinking about getting a Dental Hygienist (BS) and the later pursuing an Orthodontist. What would be the best way to enter this type of field and where should I start as a High School student?

I'm a junior in high school and my biggest dream is to become a orthodontist but i'm not sure the steps to take in order to achieve my dream.

high-school dentistry dentist dental dental-hygienist orthodontist teeth
Answer This

+25 Karma if successful
From: You
To: Friend
Subject: Career question for you
8

5 answers

1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Andrey’s Answer

Ethan, I've been working as a dental hygienist for the past 8 years and I can assure you that it's a fantastic career choice. The pay is impressive, especially considering it only requires an associate degree. However, it's important to note that the credits from Dental Hygiene school don't contribute to your pre-dental degree. Dental schools usually prefer applicants with a biomedical science degree or a degree rich in science.

Think of the dental hygiene degree as a stepping stone. It equips you with valuable real-world experience and provides a solid career option if you ever decide to change your path. The flexible schedule of a dental hygienist allows you to continue working towards your ultimate goal.

I would advise against pursuing a bachelor's degree in dental hygiene, as it doesn't provide any additional advantages.

Please don't hesitate to connect with me. I'm currently navigating the dental school application process as a non-traditional student, and I'd be happy to share my experiences with you.
Thank you comment icon You rock! This advice is very helpful. Tracy
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Doc’s Answer

In order to practice as a dental hygienist Ethan, you’ll need the correct training and education. The American Dental Hygienists Association recognizes both associate’s and bachelor’s degrees in dental hygiene as the required education for entry-level dental hygienist jobs. An associate’s degree will take two years to complete, whereas a bachelor’s degree will typically take four.

There are pros to both types of degrees. For instance, getting an associate’s degree allows you to begin working in the field as soon as possible, and you’ll be fully licensed for any entry-level dental hygienist job. On the other hand, obtaining a bachelor’s degree can open more doors as you’ll be considered to have a more specialized and advanced education. This degree is particularly useful if your planing on becoming a orthodontist.

BECOMING A ORTHODONTIST
Ethan your next step in becoming a orthodontist is to apply to dental school, you’ll have to write the DAT. This test is specifically designed to assess your potential to do well in the field of dentistry. Since dental schools are highly competitive, it’s imperative you maintain a high GPA throughout your undergrad to maximize your chances of getting into your dream dental school. And having experience as a hygienist will help your dental school application stand out.

After you've completed dental school your next step to becoming an orthodontist is completing an accredited orthodontics residency. It takes two or three years and it enhances your dentistry knowledge to manage and resolve issues regarding facial misalignment and tooth movement. While a two-year program allows students to graduate faster, a three-year one helps you gain a deeper knowledge of complex orthodontic issues. Three-year programs are more likely to also offer master's degrees in orthodontics.

Hope this is helpful Ethan
Thank you comment icon Thank You Berrett. Every person can make a difference, and every person should try.” Doc Frick
1
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

John’s Answer

Hello!
If you are interested in becoming a hygienist or an orthodontist, I would recommend you look into getting a job as a dental assistant first. The great thing about assisting is it will get you into the environment so you can see if you really want to pursue the field. Another great thing is that the requirements to assist a very minimal, and most of the training is just on the job. Since you are interested in hygiene or orthodontics, I would suggest you specifically look at doing hygiene assisting or orthodontic assisting. That will get you working directly with the people who have the job you want eventually, and you will be that more prepared. It's a great field and very fulfilling!

Hope that helps.

- John
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Krista’s Answer

Ethan - going to school for dental hygiene is a great option to open the door to being an orthodontist! I agree with Doc Frick in that there are pros and cons to both degrees. While a bachelor's degree can open more doors and give more opportunity in the future it does not necessarily help you stand out from other hygienists starting out. In clinical practice experience means more than which degree you have. That being said, I would suggest looking into an associate's degree initially. It is generally more affordable and you can get a job immediately after 2 years, but you can still complete your bachelor's degree in dental hygiene or something that may be better to help you prepare for DAT and dental school. Another suggestion is to start networking! Call local offices and see if you can do some shadowing, and then you'll be able to see first hand how the offices really run and then you can pick everyone's brains on what they think.
Best of luck, you're choosing a great career path!
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Doreen’s Answer

What a wonderful decision you have made. I worked in an Orthodontist office as a Expanded Function Dental Assistant for 23 years. It most definitely is the highlight of my career. I absolutely loved it. When you see first had how the kids open up as their smile begins to change is so rewarding. I personally don't see a need at all to do hygiene. I'd concentrate on a 4 year degree with all the prerequisites you need. Then pick a great Dental school. UOP is one of the best. Once you become a Dentist (doesn't matter what state) you can work for the federal government in Indian Health Service and be sponsored. They will pay your way to Ortho school and you'll gain tons of experience along the way. Once you've repaid by practicing 4 years for them you can go anywhere!! Orthodontics is probably my most favorite part of Dentistry. I wish you tons of luck! Don't give up. It'll be a great career.
0