Education

• Before you can begin taking orthodontia classes, you must first finish dental school. Dental schools, accredited by the American Dental Association, require you to have a minimum of two years pre-dental college education. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2007, 85 percent of dental student had bachelor's degrees before enrolling in dental school. Typically dental school lasts four academic years, in which you earn either a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS). Once you have finished dental school, you must attend a postgraduate school with an orthodontic continuing education program.
  
  

Time and Money

• If you are interested in becoming an orthodontist, you have to be prepared to dedicate a substantial amount of time and money. Attaining a bachelor's degree usually takes up to four years and dental school can last an additional four to five years. Continuing education to become a orthodontist may require two to three years. Total cost of tuition varies depending on your choice of college, dental school and orthodontia training. For example, a single year of dental school at Tufts University is more than $80,000, upon the publication of this article.
  
  

Licensing

• Licensing requirements vary from state to state; according to the U.S. Department of Labor, most states require orthodontists to pass written and practical exams. The National Board of Dental Examinations typically governs written exams. Depending on the state, orthodontists who pass the licensing exams may engage in both general and specialized practice.
  
  

Establishing Your Business

• Once you have attained adequate education and the appropriate licenses, you will need a place to practice and the right equipment. Appearance will play a part in your client comfort level as well as your ability to attract new clients. Finding the right space to set up your practice and purchasing quality tools are investments in your future.