Day in the life
A Day in the Life of an Orthodontist
What orthodontists actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for an orthodontist?
Review new patient scans. From there, the day usually includes examine teeth and jaw alignment, take X-rays, photos and scans, and design treatment plans. Most work full-time on weekdays, with some early morning or evening hours for students.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for an orthodontist working full time.
- Review new patient scans.
- Bond braces for a teenager.
- Do quick adjustment checks with assistants.
- Consult with parents about treatment options.
- Review clear aligner progress.
- Remove braces and fit retainers.
- Plan cases with digital software.
Where orthodontists work
Orthodontists work in private offices, often with several chairs and assistants.
Hours and schedule
Most work full-time on weekdays, with some early morning or evening hours for students.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Examine teeth and jaw alignment
- Take X-rays, photos and scans
- Design treatment plans
- Place braces and appliances
- Prescribe clear aligners
- Adjust appliances during treatment
- Fit retainers
Tools you’ll use every day
- Brackets and wires
- Intraoral scanners
- Clear aligner software
- Cephalometric X-rays
- Orthodontic pliers
- Practice software
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Very high pay
- Happy patients and visible results
- Regular hours
- Practice ownership
What’s hard
- Long training
- Business pressures
- Repetitive procedures
- High education costs
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I like precise hand work
- I enjoy working with kids and teens
- I want regular hours
- I want a high income
- I like long-term results
- I can commit to years of training
Not sure? Take the free Orthodontist fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Use infection control
- Follow radiation safety
- Handle wires and sharps safely
- Monitor for gum and tooth damage