Additional information

body or mind	Body
Field	Medical Field
Boss or Team	Own Boss & Team
Communication	Good Communicator
Work With	People
Math & Science	Maths & Science
Study Length	Prepared to Study for Years
Environment	Either Alone or In a Busy Environment

Specialist Orthodontist

An orthodontist is a specialist that studies, treats and diagnoses malocclusions of the teeth. In other words, these doctors help fix things like the incorrect bite between the upper and lower teeth that might result from misshapen or mispositioned teeth or from disproportionate jaw relationships or from both.

How to be a Specialist Orthodontist in South Africa

Get the Required Qualifications

To become a specialist orthodontist in South Africa, you will typically need the following qualifications:

Certificate (NSC/NC(V) (Entry into programmes subject to the specific requirements of the educational institution)
Bachelor’s Degree (Bachelor of Dentistry (BDS) or Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BChD))
Internship (12-month internship)
Post-graduate degree (Master of Science in Dentistry)

Demonstrate Competence in the Required Subjects

Different educational institutions may have different admission requirements; however, you will typically be required to demonstrate competency in the following subjects:

Accumulate Years of Relevant Study and Experience

Orthodontists in South Africa typically study for 5 years and render 1 year of community service. Following that, they usually study for another 2 years to get their Master’s degree.

Find Relevant Employment Opportunities

Once qualified, you will have to register with the Health Professionals Council of South Africa (HPCSA) in order to work.

Orthodontists often work in government or private hospitals and clinics. Many orthodontists go into private practise.

Find More Information from Relevant Regulatory Bodies

To find more information about specialist orthodontists, contact The Health Professionals Council of South Africa.