Orthodontists — Tasks

Task statements

• Diagnose teeth and jaw or other dental-facial abnormalities.
• Examine patients to assess abnormalities of jaw development, tooth position, and other dental-facial structures.
• Study diagnostic records, such as medical or dental histories, plaster models of the teeth, photos of a patient's face and teeth, and X-rays, to develop patient treatment plans.
• Fit dental appliances in patients' mouths to alter the position and relationship of teeth and jaws or to realign teeth.
• Adjust dental appliances to produce and maintain normal function.
• Provide patients with proposed treatment plans and cost estimates.
• Advise patients to comply with treatment plans.
• Prepare diagnostic and treatment records.
• Instruct dental officers and technical assistants in orthodontic procedures and techniques.
• Coordinate orthodontic services with other dental and medical services.
• Design and fabricate appliances, such as space maintainers, retainers, and labial and lingual arch wires.