Orthodontist (M/F)
An Orthodontist is a dental surgeon specializing in correcting the alignment of teeth and jaws. They design and monitor custom, often long-term treatments to improve masticatory function and the aesthetics of their patients' smiles.
Responsibilities
Establish an orthodontic diagnosis
Analyze the patient's teeth and jaws using X-rays and impressions to establish a treatment plan.
Design and fit orthodontic appliances
Select and adapt the most suitable device (braces, aligners) for each clinical situation.
Monitor treatment progress
Conduct regular check-up consultations to adjust the treatment throughout its duration.
Collaborate with other dental professionals
Work alongside dental surgeons, prosthodontists, and dental assistants for coordinated care.
Key skills
Hard skills
Analysis of X-rays and dental casts to establish a precise treatment plan.
Mastery of techniques for fitting braces, aligners, and other corrective devices.
Ability to adjust a treatment over several months or even years depending on patient progress.
Monitoring innovations in orthodontic appliances (clear aligners, digital technologies).
Soft skills
Technical precision required when fitting and adjusting orthodontic appliances.
Ability to explain treatment and keep patients—often young—motivated over time.
Support for long-term treatments requiring regular follow-ups and constant patient motivation.
Ability to build a relationship of trust with the patient and their family.
Working conditions
Terms and conditions
The Orthodontist practices in a dental clinic, alone or as part of a multidisciplinary team, with generally daytime hours. The profession can be practiced in private practice or as an employee of a dental health center.
Diplomas & training
- Benchmark diploma: State Diploma of Doctor of Dental Surgery (bac+6), completed with a Certificate of Special Clinical Studies in Orthodontics (CECSMO), representing 4 additional years of training.
- Mandatory registration: Registration with the Ordre National des Chirurgiens-Dentistes to practice.
Career & advancement
- Private practitioner in an orthodontic clinic
- Lecturer in dental education
- University hospital lecturer / Senior registrar
Salaries
France Travail • 2026
Monthly salary
Since the France Travail job description linked to this profession is that of Dentist, based on salaried job postings published on candidat.francetravail.fr, the gross monthly salary generally ranges between €7,700 and €8,200.
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Frequently asked questions about this job
Essential points
You must hold the State Diploma of Doctor of Dental Surgery (bac+6), followed by a 4-year specialization in orthodontics (CECSMO).
An orthodontist specializes in correcting the alignment of teeth and jaws, whereas a general dentist provides comprehensive routine oral care.
Managing long-term treatments requiring sustained patient motivation and the technical precision required to adjust appliances are the main demands of the job.
Looking to recruit or call upon one of our agencies for this role?
Whether you are a dental health center or a practice looking for qualified practitioners, or wishing to engage recruitment services for your team: the Actual Médical agency network selects and provides rigorously assessed orthodontist profiles, ready to step in quickly.
Usage note
This job description serves as a general reference to describe the role, responsibilities, and scope of the Orthodontist (M/F) position within the Healthcare sector. Its goal is to help candidates understand the realities of the profession, and to help companies/recruiters understand the profile, skills associated with this function, as well as the recruitment solutions offered by Actual group.