Meaning & History. From the medieval Latin masculine name Angelus which was derived from the name of the heavenly creature (itself derived from the Greek word Î±Î³Î³ÎµÎ»Î¿Ï (angelos) meaning messenger). It has never been very common in the English-speaking world, where it is sometimes used as a feminine name in modern times.
Orthodontists are dentists who specialize in diagnosing dental abnormalities and realigning teeth. After earning an undergraduate degree in order to gain admission to a dental school, prospective orthodontists must earn a professional degree in dentistry. After completing dental school, aspiring orthodontists pursue a post-degree training program or a 1-2-year residency in orthodontics.
How to become an Orthodontist. In order to become an orthodontist, prospective students must first become licensed to practice as a dentist. There are over 56 dental schools in the United States that are accredited by the American Dental Association (ADA). Dental schools require a minimum pre-requisite of 2 years at college prior to admission into an accredited orthodontic program. Since only 67 programs exist in the United States and Canada, admission into dental school is competitive and all applicants are required to take a Dental Admissions Test (DAT).