The 10 Best Orthodontist Schools for Residency Programs
Are you considering a career in orthodontics? Check out our list of the top 10 dental schools for orthodontics to find the best program for you.
Posted March 6, 2025
Table of Contents
Orthodontics is a specialized field in dentistry that focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting dental and facial irregularities. Unlike general dentistry, which covers a broad range of oral health issues, orthodontics requires additional education and clinical training to develop expertise in treatment planning, patient-centered care, and contemporary orthodontic techniques.
To become an orthodontist, students must complete four years of dental school, earning a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. After that, they must be accepted into an accredited orthodontic residency program, which typically lasts two to three years. During this period, residents gain hands-on experience with patient cases, conduct research, and refine their skills under the guidance of faculty and program directors.
Choosing the right orthodontic residency program can shape an orthodontist’s career, impacting their job opportunities, clinical skills, and research involvement. This article highlights some of the best orthodontist schools in the country based on academic excellence, faculty expertise, clinical training, and research opportunities.
What is an Orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who diagnoses, prevents, and treats misaligned teeth and jaw irregularities. They are trained to correct issues such as malocclusions (bad bites), overcrowded teeth, overbites, underbites, and jaw misalignment. Their work involves treatment planning, patient-centered care, and contemporary orthodontic techniques to improve oral function and aesthetics.
Unlike general dentists, orthodontists receive additional education and training after completing dental school. They must complete a two- to three-year orthodontic residency program at an accredited institution, where they gain hands-on experience in diagnosing and treating patients using braces, clear aligners, retainers, and other corrective appliances.
Key Responsibilities of an Orthodontist
- Evaluating Patients: Conduct thorough assessments of teeth, jaw structure, and bite alignment using X-rays, 3D imaging, and clinical exams.
- Creating Treatment Plans: Developing customized orthodontic treatment plans that address alignment issues, often using braces, clear aligners, or other orthodontic devices.
- Applying and Adjusting Braces: Installing metal braces, ceramic braces, lingual braces, or Invisalign-style clear aligners to correct misalignments.
- Monitoring Treatment Progress: Scheduling regular check-ups to ensure that treatment is progressing as planned and making necessary adjustments.
- Jaw and Bite Corrections: Using specialized appliances, headgear, or surgical coordination for severe bite and jaw alignment issues.
- Post-Treatment Retention: Designing and providing retainers to maintain results after orthodontic treatment is completed.
- Collaborating with Other Dental Specialists: Working with oral surgeons, periodontists, and general dentists when complex cases require interdisciplinary care.
Education and Training Path
- Earn a Bachelor’s Degree: Most orthodontists complete a science-related undergraduate degree, often in biology or chemistry.
- Graduate from Dental School: Complete a four-year Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree.
- Get Accepted into an Orthodontic Residency Program: A competitive two- to three-year orthodontic residency program provides advanced training in treatment planning, biomechanics, patient-centered care, and hands-on clinical experience.
- Obtain Licensure: Graduates must pass the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) certification exam to practice as a licensed orthodontist.
- Continue Education: Many orthodontists stay up to date on new technologies and contemporary orthodontic techniques through continuing education courses and conferences.
Where Do Orthodontists Work?
Orthodontists work in various settings, depending on their career goals:
- Private Practice: Many orthodontists own or work in orthodontic clinics, treating patients independently.
- Group Dental Practices: Some orthodontists join multi-specialty dental offices, collaborating with general dentists and specialists.
- Academic and Research Institutions: Those with a strong interest in education and orthodontic research work in universities and teaching hospitals.
- Hospital-Based Orthodontics: Some orthodontists focus on complex cases involving craniofacial abnormalities, cleft palate, or jaw surgery coordination in hospital settings.
The 10 Best Orthodontist Schools
| School Name | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| University of Michigan – Ann Arbor | 6.7% |
| University of Pennsylvania – School of Dental Medicine | 6.1% |
| University of Rochester – Eastman Institute for Oral Health | 3.3% |
| Saint Louis University Center for Advanced Dental Education | 3% |
| Stony Brook University School of Dental Medicine4.12% | 4.12% |
| University of Southern California – Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry | 6.1% |
| Columbia University College of Dental Medicine | 3% |
| University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston | 10% |
| University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill – Adams School of Dentistry | 5.9% |
| Harvard University – School of Dental Medicine | 3.18% |
1. University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
- Location: Ann Arbor, MI
- Program Length: 3 years
- Degree Offered: MS degree and orthodontic certificate
Key Highlights:
- Strong emphasis on clinical training and research.
- State-of-the-art biomechanics lab and 3D imaging technology.
- Faculty with extensive experience in orthodontic treatment planning and patient-centered care.
- High job placement rate for graduates in private practice and academic positions.
The University of Michigan – Ann Arbor offers one of the best orthodontic residency programs in the country, with a strong emphasis on clinical training and research. The program provides a combined MS degree and orthodontic certificate, allowing residents to develop advanced skills in biomechanics, craniofacial anomalies, and interdisciplinary orthodontics. With state-of-the-art research facilities, residents gain hands-on experience in 3D imaging, aligner therapy, and contemporary orthodontic techniques. The faculty consists of leading experts in dental medicine and orthodontics, ensuring residents receive mentorship and guidance. The program’s competitive acceptance rate (6.7%) reflects its prestige, with graduates often securing positions in private practice, academia, and hospital-based orthodontics.
2. University of Pennsylvania – School of Dental Medicine
- Location: Philadelphia, PA
- Program Length: 3 years
- Degree Offered: Orthodontic certificate, optional MS degree
Key Highlights:
- One of the best orthodontist schools with strong research opportunities.
- Cutting-edge facilities for advanced orthodontic techniques.
- Combined MS degree and orthodontic residency for research-focused students.
- Clinical training with a focus on treatment planning and patient-centered care.
The University of Pennsylvania’s School of Dental Medicine is known for its academic excellence and research-driven orthodontic residency program. Residents benefit from hands-on experience in treatment planning, biomechanics, and digital orthodontics. The program offers a strong focus on contemporary orthodontic techniques, including aligner therapy, lingual braces, and robotic-assisted tooth movement. With access to cutting-edge technology and a faculty of renowned orthodontists, Penn’s program is one of the most selective, with an acceptance rate of 6.1%. Graduates often move on to lead roles in orthodontic research, private practice, and university faculty positions.
3. University of Rochester – Eastman Institute for Oral Health
- Location: Rochester, NY
- Program Length: 2 years
- Degree Offered: Orthodontic certificate
Key Highlights:
- Strong clinical training program with early patient exposure.
- Hands-on experience treating complex orthodontic cases.
- Faculty with a deep understanding of contemporary orthodontic techniques.
- Focus on community service and patient-centered care.
The University of Rochester’s Eastman Institute for Oral Health provides a rigorous orthodontic residency program focusing on evidence-based treatment and patient-centered care. Residents receive early clinical exposure, treating a wide range of orthodontic and dentofacial abnormalities. The program includes interdisciplinary collaboration with oral surgeons and prosthodontists, ensuring a deep understanding of complex cases. With an acceptance rate of 3.3%, the program is highly competitive. Graduates from Rochester often pursue careers in private practice, research, and academic institutions.
4. Saint Louis University Center for Advanced Dental Education
- Location: St. Louis, MO
- Program Length: 30 months
- Degree Offered: Orthodontic certificate
Key Highlights:
- Comprehensive orthodontic residency program focused on clinical excellence.
- Experienced faculty mentors guide residents through treatment planning.
- Research opportunities with access to top resources in orthodontics.
- Graduates often work in private practice or academic settings.
The Saint Louis University (SLU) Center for Advanced Dental Education offers an accredited orthodontic residency program with a strong emphasis on clinical training and academic research. The program provides hands-on experience in biomechanics, aligner therapy, and interdisciplinary orthodontics, preparing residents for a successful career. SLU’s orthodontic faculty includes experts in contemporary orthodontic techniques, providing mentorship in diagnostic imaging, treatment planning, and practice management. The program’s acceptance rate is 3%, making it a competitive choice for applicants. Many graduates go on to work in private practice, research, and orthodontic faculty positions.
5. Stony Brook University School of Dental Medicine
- Location: Stony Brook, NY
- Program Length: 3 years
- Degree Offered: Orthodontic certificate
Key Highlights:
- Hands-on experience with diverse patient cases.
- Focus on health sciences and evidence-based treatment approaches.
- Research-driven orthodontic program with an emphasis on biomechanics.
- Affordable tuition compared to private institutions.
The Stony Brook University School of Dental Medicine is known for its comprehensive residency program, which provides a strong foundation in both clinical orthodontics and research. Residents receive extensive hands-on training in clear aligners, surgical orthodontics, and digital treatment planning. The program also integrates community service, allowing residents to treat underserved populations. With an acceptance rate of 4.12%, the program attracts top candidates looking for advanced orthodontic training and mentorship from leading faculty. Graduates often move on to private practice, hospital-based orthodontics, and academia.
6. University of Southern California – Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry
- Location: Los Angeles, CA
- Program Length: 3 years
- Degree Offered: Orthodontic certificate
Key Highlights:
- Leading Los Angeles school with strong industry connections.
- Advanced digital orthodontics and contemporary treatment techniques.
- Graduates frequently pursue private practice careers.
- High research output in dental medicine.
Located in Los Angeles, the University of Southern California (USC) Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry offers a highly regarded orthodontic residency program that integrates advanced technology, digital imaging, and contemporary orthodontic techniques. Residents receive hands-on experience in lingual braces, clear aligners, and interdisciplinary treatment planning. With an acceptance rate of 6.1%, the program is competitive and attracts applicants from across the country. USC’s strong alumni network and connections with top orthodontic research institutions make it an excellent choice for those interested in both clinical practice and research.
7. Columbia University College of Dental Medicine
- Location: New York, NY
- Program Length: 3 years
- Degree Offered: MS degree and orthodontic certificate
Key Highlights:
- Strong focus on academic excellence and orthodontic residency research.
- Advanced treatment planning and biomechanics coursework.
- Graduates frequently work in private practice and research institutions.
- High job placement rate in top-tier dental institutions.
The Columbia University College of Dental Medicine offers an elite orthodontic residency program that emphasizes biomechanics, treatment planning, and advanced orthodontic techniques. The program provides a combined MS degree and orthodontic certificate, allowing residents to conduct high-impact research while developing clinical skills. Columbia’s faculty includes leaders in dental medicine and orthodontic innovation, providing residents with unparalleled mentorship. With an acceptance rate of 3%, Columbia remains one of the most competitive programs. Graduates often pursue careers in research, academic faculty positions, or high-end private practice.
8. University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
- Location: Houston, TX
- Program Length: 30 months
- Degree Offered: Orthodontic certificate
Key Highlights:
- One of the top orthodontic programs in Texas.
- Strong faculty mentorship and career placement support.
- Affordable tuition compared to private programs.
- Graduates often work in private practice or academic roles.
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) offers a rigorous orthodontic residency program focused on clinical excellence, biomechanics, and surgical orthodontics. Residents gain extensive hands-on experience treating patients using clear aligners, temporary anchorage devices (TADs), and advanced imaging techniques. With an acceptance rate of 10%, it is one of the more accessible top programs. UTHealth graduates frequently work in private practice, hospital-based orthodontics, and dental research
9. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill – Adams School of Dentistry
- Location: Chapel Hill, NC
- Program Length: 3 years
- Degree Offered: Orthodontic certificate
Key Highlights:
- Consistently ranked among the top orthodontics programs.
- Strong research opportunities in biomechanics and dental medicine.
- Graduates frequently secure jobs in private practice and academic settings.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC) Adams School of Dentistry offers a top-tier orthodontic residency program with a strong emphasis on patient-centered care and research. Residents receive in-depth training in craniofacial anomalies, complex malocclusions, and digital orthodontics. The program’s curriculum includes advanced biomechanics, surgical orthodontics, and interdisciplinary collaboration. With an acceptance rate of 5.9%, it is a competitive choice. Many UNC graduates go on to highly successful careers in private practice, research, and orthodontic faculty positions.
10. Harvard University – School of Dental Medicine
- Location: Boston, MA
- Program Length: 3 years
- Degree Offered: MS degree and orthodontic certificate
Key Highlights:
- Highly selective residency program with a strong focus on research.
- Cutting-edge technology and access to world-class faculty.
- High job placement rates in top-tier institutions.
The Harvard School of Dental Medicine offers one of the most prestigious orthodontic residency programs in the country. Residents benefit from a strong emphasis on clinical training, research, and leadership in dental medicine. The program includes a combined MS degree and orthodontic certificate, allowing students to engage in high-level orthodontic research. With an acceptance rate of 3.18%, it is one of the most selective programs. Harvard graduates frequently move into high-ranking positions in academia, research institutions, and top private practices.
Other Top Orthodontist Schools with Strong Residency Programs
- University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry: Offers a comprehensive orthodontic residency program with a strong emphasis on biomechanics, craniofacial anomalies, and interdisciplinary care. The program integrates cutting-edge technology and digital orthodontics for advanced training.
- Tufts University School of Dental Medicine: Known for its strong faculty mentorship and hands-on clinical experience, Tufts provides residents with early exposure to complex orthodontic cases and access to state-of-the-art orthodontic research facilities.
- University of Washington School of Dentistry: Offers an evidence-based orthodontic curriculum with a deep focus on craniofacial growth, biomechanics, and treatment planning. The program emphasizes patient-centered care and interdisciplinary collaboration with other dental specialties.
- Baylor College of Dentistry – Texas A&M University: One of the top orthodontic residency programs in Texas, Baylor focuses on clinical excellence, research, and the latest advancements in orthodontic technology. Graduates frequently enter private practice, hospital-based orthodontics, and academic roles.
- University of Florida College of Dentistry: Offers a well-rounded orthodontic residency program with a strong emphasis on digital treatment planning, aligner therapy, and biomechanics. The program is known for producing graduates who excel in both private practice and academic settings.
Each of these orthodontic programs provides unique strengths in research, clinical training, and patient-centered orthodontics. Prospective residents should thoroughly evaluate curricula, faculty expertise, and program resources to find the best fit for their career goals.
Bottom Line
Selecting the right orthodontic residency program is essential for developing clinical expertise, research skills, and career opportunities in orthodontics. The best orthodontist schools, such as Harvard, Michigan, Columbia, and Penn, provide top-tier faculty mentorship, cutting-edge research opportunities, and hands-on clinical training to prepare residents for success in private practice, academia, and hospital-based orthodontics. With competitive acceptance rates and rigorous training, these programs shape the future of orthodontic care, making them a valuable investment for aspiring orthodontists.
Get Help From a Dental School Admissions Coach
Getting into dental school or an orthodontic residency program can be tough. A coach can help you improve your application, write a strong personal statement, and prepare for interviews.
Related Articles
If you're exploring orthodontic residency programs or considering a career in dental medicine, these articles may provide additional insights:
- Dental School Interview Guide (2025)
- Harvard School of Dental Medicine–Program and Application Overview
- Everything You Need to Know About Dental School
- Dental School Requirements: What You Need to Apply
- How Hard Is It (Actually) to Become a Dentist?
- Dental School Application Help: Personal Statement, Interviews, & More
- How to Become a Dentist: Application, Degree Programs, FAQs
FAQs
What college is best to become an orthodontist?
- Several top dental schools offer strong programs that lead to an orthodontic career, but the best choice depends on factors like clinical training, faculty mentorship, and research opportunities. Some of the best orthodontist schools include Harvard University, University of Michigan, University of Pennsylvania, Columbia University, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. These programs provide rigorous orthodontic residency training and a strong foundation in dental medicine.
What is the #1 dental school in the US?
- The top-ranked dental school in the U.S. varies based on ranking criteria such as academic excellence, clinical training, research output, and faculty expertise. However, the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, and the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) School of Dentistry are consistently ranked among the best. These schools have highly respected faculty, advanced research programs, and excellent clinical training.
What is the best major for orthodontics?
- Most dental schools do not require a specific undergraduate major, but students should focus on science-based disciplines that prepare them for dental school prerequisites. Popular undergraduate majors for aspiring orthodontists include Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, and Health Sciences. Coursework in anatomy, physiology, physics, and microbiology can also help build a strong foundation for dental education.
How many years do orthodontists go to school?
- Becoming an orthodontist typically takes 10 to 11 years of education and training:
- 4 years of undergraduate education (Bachelor’s degree)
- 4 years of dental school (DDS or DMD degree)
- 2 to 3 years of an accredited orthodontic residency program
