Navy
MEDICAL
Subspecialty

Officer Subspecialty

1735

Orthodontics

An officer subspecialty earned alongside a primary designator, marking advanced education or experience in this field.

Description

Diagnoses and provides preventive, interceptive, and corrective treatment for irregularities of teeth, malocclusion, and associated facial abnormalities. Determines nature and extent of irregularities and malpositioning of teeth. Treats deviations from normal that occur in growth, development, and position of teeth and supporting facial bones. Designs devices for moving and guiding teeth and jaws into proper position and interrelationship. Ensures harmony of masticatory function with mandibular movements.

Core Skills

  • orthodontic diagnosis
  • malocclusion assessment
  • cephalometric analysis
  • orthodontic treatment planning
  • braces and appliance design
  • tooth movement management
  • jaw growth guidance
  • dental imaging
  • occlusion and function analysis

Common Certifications

  • American Board of Orthodontics Diplomate Certification
  • State Dental License
  • Advanced Cardiac Life Support Certification
  • Basic Life Support Certification
  • Nitrous Oxide and Sedation Certification
  • Controlled Substance Registration Certificate

Civilian Career Paths

  • DENTAL
  • CLINICAL TECHNICIAN

Training & Development

Getting Started

  • Doctor of Dental Surgery or Doctor of Dental Medicine Degree
  • Accredited Orthodontics Residency
  • Basic Life Support Certification
  • State Dental License

Career Growth

  • American Board of Orthodontics Diplomate Certification
  • Advanced Cardiac Life Support Certification
  • Nitrous Oxide and Sedation Certification
  • Digital Orthodontics Certificate

Equivalent Roles in Other Branches

Data sourced from official Navy publications and public military occupational references. Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.