How do I become a orthodontist
Get qualified to work as a orthodontist with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Orthodontist.
Common questions
The typical weekly salary for an Orthodontist in Australia is approximately $2,640, which translates to an annual salary of around $137,000. Increase your earning capacity by undertaking post-graduate qualifications in specialist areas like public health or business administration.
Courses.com.au Team
There are 1,400 Dental Specialists currently employed across Australia, this includes qualified Orthodontists. They mainly work in private practice but some are employed by government health providers.
Courses.com.au Team
Becoming a fully qualified Orthodontist in Australia is a long-term commitment to your education and professional development. The steps are as follows:
- Complete a degree that covers human anatomy, biochemistry, and physiology such as the Bachelor of Biomedicine or Bachelor of Health Science.
- Pass the Graduate Australian Medical School Admissions Test (GAMSAT).
- Complete a Doctor of Dental Surgery.
- Undertake at least 2 x years of clinical experience as a dentist.
- Complete a Doctor of Clinical Dentistry (Orthodontics) — or similar orthodontic course that is recognised by the Australian Dental Council.
- Register as a Specialist in Orthodontics with AHPRA.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights 2024
Courses.com.au Team
Further reading
What can you do with a Certificate III in Dental Assisting?
4th March 2021
How to become a dental assistant
24th February 2020All orthodontist courses
Orthodontist careers
Orthodontists are qualified dentists who focus on straightening teeth, fixing jaw alignment problems, and helping their clients achieve a beautiful smile. They perform dental surgery as well as configure and fit metal braces, clear aligners, expansion plates, bite-correcting springs, and other dental appliances.
As an Orthodontist you could be conducting an oral exam on a new patient, examining dental x-rays, fitting a set of clear-aligners for a patient, fixing an uncomfortable wire on metal braces, discussing a change to the treatment plan of a long-term client, having a team meeting with all staff at the dental practice, updating patient records, or just having a quick coffee in between appointments.
To succeed in this occupation you must be committed to academic and technical excellence in dentistry and have outstanding interpersonal and communication skills.
