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Orthodontists

Health Science

Service Branches

  • Army logo
  • navy logo
  • Air Force logo

Work Environment

Orthodontists work in hospitals and dental clinics on land and aboard ships.

  • Military Status

    Officer

  • Average Military Salary

    $120,844

Overview

Using the latest equipment and techniques, orthodontists examine, diagnose, treat, or prescribe treatment of the growing and mature dentofacial structures, to include movement of teeth. They often use braces and aligners to set service members’ and their family members’ teeth.

Military Training

Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving. Orthodontists have a doctorate degree in dental medicine or dental surgery. Orthodontists who participate in military-sponsored residency programs receive renowned education. Like other healthcare officers they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities military structure and etiquette traditions the military health system and leadership development. Job-specific training content may include:

  • Preventive dentistry
  • Dental office procedures
  • Radiology (X-ray) techniques
  • Dental hygiene procedures

Helpful Attributes

  • Desire to help others
  • Good eye-hand coordination
  • Interest in work requiring accuracy and attention to detail

Related Civilian Careers

  • Dentists, General