[Core] [64% incumbents] Fit dental appliances in patients' mouths to alter the position and relationship of teeth and jaws or to realign teeth.
  DWAs: Adjust dental devices or appliances to ensure fit.

[Core] [64% incumbents] Adjust dental appliances to produce and maintain normal function.
  DWAs: Adjust dental devices or appliances to ensure fit.

[Core] [64% incumbents] Provide patients with proposed treatment plans and cost estimates.
  DWAs: Communicate detailed medical information to patients or family members.

[Core] [64% incumbents] Advise patients to comply with treatment plans.
  DWAs: Confer with clients to discuss treatment plans or progress. | Advise patients on effects of health conditions or treatments.

[Core] [64% incumbents] Prepare diagnostic and treatment records.
  DWAs: Record patient medical histories.

[Core] [64% incumbents] Design and fabricate appliances, such as space maintainers, retainers, and labial and lingual arch wires.
  DWAs: Design medical devices or appliances. | Fabricate medical devices.

[Core] [63% incumbents] Diagnose teeth and jaw or other dental-facial abnormalities.
  DWAs: Diagnose dental conditions.

[Core] [63% incumbents] Examine patients to assess abnormalities of jaw development, tooth position, and other dental-facial structures.
  DWAs: Examine mouth, teeth, gums, or related facial structures.

[Core] [63% incumbents] Study diagnostic records, such as medical or dental histories, plaster models of the teeth, photos of a patient's face and teeth, and X-rays, to develop patient treatment plans.
  DWAs: Analyze patient data to determine patient needs or treatment goals.

[Core] [63% incumbents] Instruct dental officers and technical assistants in orthodontic procedures and techniques.
  DWAs: Train medical providers.

[Core] [63% incumbents] Coordinate orthodontic services with other dental and medical services.
  DWAs: Collaborate with healthcare professionals to plan or provide treatment.

--- SKILLS ---
  Active Listening (imp:4.00 lvl:4.00) — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand
  Speaking (imp:4.00 lvl:4.00) — Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  Critical Thinking (imp:4.00 lvl:4.00) — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternativ
  Monitoring (imp:4.00 lvl:4.00) — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organization
  Reading Comprehension (imp:3.88 lvl:4.12) — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
  Active Learning (imp:3.75 lvl:4.00) — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future pr
  Writing (imp:3.38 lvl:4.00) — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audienc
  Science (imp:3.38 lvl:3.50) — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
  Learning Strategies (imp:3.25 lvl:3.50) — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate fo
  Mathematics (imp:2.12 lvl:2.62) — Using mathematics to solve problems.

--- KNOWLEDGE ---
  Medicine and Dentistry (imp:4.95 lvl:6.03) — Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human i
  Customer and Personal Service (imp:4.25 lvl:4.93) — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal servic
  English Language (imp:3.69 lvl:3.64) — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the mea
  Biology (imp:3.68 lvl:3.74) — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interd
  Computers and Electronics (imp:3.26 lvl:3.65) — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and comput
  Mathematics (imp:3.22 lvl:3.37) — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their appl
  Administration and Management (imp:3.18 lvl:3.49) — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, 
  Education and Training (imp:3.14 lvl:3.69) — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching
  Physics (imp:3.07 lvl:3.18) — Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships,
  Engineering and Technology (imp:3.05 lvl:3.02) — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. Th
  Personnel and Human Resources (imp:2.96 lvl:3.36) — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, tra
  Psychology (imp:2.96 lvl:3.37) — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, 
  Administrative (imp:2.68 lvl:3.55) — Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word proce
  Economics and Accounting (imp:2.64 lvl:2.52) — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial mar
  Chemistry (imp:2.63 lvl:2.81) — Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances a
  Production and Processing (imp:2.61 lvl:2.74) — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and ot
  Sales and Marketing (imp:2.60 lvl:3.09) — Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products
  Communications and Media (imp:2.58 lvl:2.51) — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and m
  Design (imp:2.48 lvl:2.34) — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of 
  Public Safety and Security (imp:2.46 lvl:2.04) — Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote
  Mechanical (imp:2.19 lvl:1.91) — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and main
  Telecommunications (imp:2.11 lvl:1.49) — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of te
  Therapy and Counseling (imp:2.09 lvl:1.80) — Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and r
  Foreign Language (imp:1.82 lvl:1.67) — Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language inclu
  Sociology and Anthropology (imp:1.81 lvl:1.47) — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human 
  Law and Government (imp:1.74 lvl:1.72) — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulat
  Philosophy and Theology (imp:1.25 lvl:0.88) — Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their 
  History and Archeology (imp:1.21) — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civi
  Building and Construction (imp:1.19 lvl:0.50) — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or r
  Transportation (imp:1.16) — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea
  Geography (imp:1.11) — Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, an
  Fine Arts (imp:1.05) — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform
  Food Production (imp:1.03) — Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food

--- ABILITIES ---
  Problem Sensitivity (imp:4.12 lvl:4.88) — The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does no
  Oral Comprehension (imp:4.00 lvl:4.25) — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through 
  Written Comprehension (imp:4.00 lvl:4.12) — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
  Oral Expression (imp:4.00 lvl:4.12) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will unde
  Written Expression (imp:4.00 lvl:4.00) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will under
  Deductive Reasoning (imp:4.00 lvl:4.00) — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that 
  Inductive Reasoning (imp:4.00 lvl:4.12) — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusion
  Arm-Hand Steadiness (imp:4.00 lvl:3.88) — The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while hold
  Finger Dexterity (imp:4.00 lvl:4.00) — The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or bot
  Near Vision (imp:4.00 lvl:4.12) — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
  Information Ordering (imp:3.75 lvl:4.00) — The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according
  Manual Dexterity (imp:3.75 lvl:3.88) — The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your
  Speech Recognition (imp:3.75 lvl:3.50) — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
  Speech Clarity (imp:3.75 lvl:3.38) — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
  Fluency of Ideas (imp:3.25 lvl:3.38) — The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas
  Category Flexibility (imp:3.25 lvl:3.62) — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping
  Selective Attention (imp:3.25 lvl:3.25) — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distrac
  Control Precision (imp:3.25 lvl:3.88) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehi
  Visualization (imp:3.12 lvl:3.62) — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when 
  Originality (imp:3.00 lvl:3.25) — The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situa
  Time Sharing (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of
  Far Vision (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to see details at a distance.
  Flexibility of Closure (imp:2.88 lvl:3.00) — The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or so
  Perceptual Speed (imp:2.75 lvl:3.00) — The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among
  Multilimb Coordination (imp:2.75 lvl:2.88) — The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or
  Memorization (imp:2.62 lvl:2.75) — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and proced
  Mathematical Reasoning (imp:2.50 lvl:2.88) — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a prob
  Number Facility (imp:2.50 lvl:3.00) — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
  Speed of Closure (imp:2.50 lvl:2.50) — The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into mea
  Visual Color Discrimination (imp:2.50 lvl:2.62) — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of c
  Auditory Attention (imp:2.25 lvl:2.12) — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distra
  Wrist-Finger Speed (imp:2.12 lvl:1.50) — The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and 
  Extent Flexibility (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
  Static Strength (imp:2.00 lvl:1.38) — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
  Trunk Strength (imp:2.00 lvl:1.38) — The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the 
  Depth Perception (imp:2.00 lvl:2.00) — The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you
  Hearing Sensitivity (imp:2.00 lvl:1.88) — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch 
  Response Orientation (imp:1.88 lvl:1.38) — The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two o
  Rate Control (imp:1.88 lvl:1.12) — The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in an
  Reaction Time (imp:1.88 lvl:1.38) — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sou
  Dynamic Strength (imp:1.25 lvl:0.25) — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This inv
  Explosive Strength (imp:1.12 lvl:0.12) — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping
  Gross Body Equilibrium (imp:1.12 lvl:0.12) — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unsta
  Spatial Orientation (imp:1.00) — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know wher
  Speed of Limb Movement (imp:1.00) — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
  Stamina (imp:1.00) — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getti
  Dynamic Flexibility (imp:1.00) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with yo
  Gross Body Coordination (imp:1.00) — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together wh
  Night Vision (imp:1.00) — The ability to see under low-light conditions.
  Peripheral Vision (imp:1.00) — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes ar
  Glare Sensitivity (imp:1.00) — The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
  Sound Localization (imp:1.00) — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.

--- WORK ACTIVITIES ---
  Making Decisions and Solving Problems (imp:4.36 lvl:5.69) — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and sol
  Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge (imp:4.33 lvl:5.63) — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
  Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships (imp:4.33 lvl:5.51) — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and m
  Developing and Building Teams (imp:4.18 lvl:4.16) — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team membe
  Documenting/Recording Information (imp:4.12 lvl:4.01) — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in writte
  Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates (imp:4.10 lvl:4.24) — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone,
  Getting Information (imp:4.05 lvl:4.65) — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sour
  Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings (imp:4.01 lvl:4.75) — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment,
  Performing for or Working Directly with the Public (imp:3.99 lvl:4.28) — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving
  Coaching and Developing Others (imp:3.83 lvl:3.96) — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherw
  Monitoring and Controlling Resources (imp:3.80 lvl:4.53) — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
  Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates (imp:3.78 lvl:4.24) — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance 
  Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work (imp:3.76 lvl:4.98) — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your
  Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People (imp:3.67 lvl:4.04) — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
  Training and Teaching Others (imp:3.65 lvl:3.90) — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or tr
  Assisting and Caring for Others (imp:3.64 lvl:3.49) — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other pe
  Thinking Creatively (imp:3.61 lvl:4.50) — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, syste
  Working with Computers (imp:3.61 lvl:2.73) — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to progra
  Scheduling Work and Activities (imp:3.59 lvl:4.44) — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
  Communicating with People Outside the Organization (imp:3.59 lvl:3.89) — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organizatio
  Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others (imp:3.53 lvl:4.48) — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
  Developing Objectives and Strategies (imp:3.49 lvl:4.37) — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to 
  Staffing Organizational Units (imp:3.46 lvl:3.63) — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organ
  Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards (imp:3.41 lvl:3.94) — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events o
  Selling or Influencing Others (imp:3.37 lvl:4.19) — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or
  Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events (imp:3.34 lvl:4.54) — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or 
  Analyzing Data or Information (imp:3.19 lvl:3.32) — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by break
  Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others (imp:3.10 lvl:3.37) — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
  Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials (imp:3.09 lvl:2.71) — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors o
  Providing Consultation and Advice to Others (imp:3.06 lvl:3.22) — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical,
  Handling and Moving Objects (imp:3.01 lvl:4.57) — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials,
  Processing Information (imp:2.98 lvl:3.92) — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying
  Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information (imp:2.85 lvl:2.87) — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resourc
  Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others (imp:2.79 lvl:3.01) — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, 
  Performing Administrative Activities (imp:2.66 lvl:2.78) — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files
  Controlling Machines and Processes (imp:2.65 lvl:2.69) — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines 
  Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment (imp:2.10) — Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to t
  Performing General Physical Activities (imp:1.98 lvl:1.29) — Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require co
  Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment (imp:1.92 lvl:1.42) — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, an
  Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment (imp:1.80 lvl:1.14) — Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines,
  Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment (imp:1.57 lvl:0.92) — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, s

--- WORK STYLES ---
  Dependability (imp:6.00) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Attention to Detail (imp:5.00) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Integrity (imp:4.00) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Cautiousness (imp:3.00) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Attention to Detail (imp:3.00) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Dependability (imp:2.50) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Cautiousness (imp:2.43) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Achievement Orientation (imp:2.08) — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Integrity (imp:2.06) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Intellectual Curiosity (imp:2.04) — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Intellectual Curiosity (imp:2.00) — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Social Orientation (imp:1.79) — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Perseverance (imp:1.77) — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Cooperation (imp:1.74) — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Self-Confidence (imp:1.73) — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Self-Control (imp:1.73) — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
  Stress Tolerance (imp:1.70) — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Sincerity (imp:1.55) — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Empathy (imp:1.54) — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Innovation (imp:1.52) — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Optimism (imp:1.42) — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Initiative (imp:1.21) — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Adaptability (imp:1.02) — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Achievement Orientation (imp:1.00) — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Leadership Orientation (imp:1.00) — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
  Tolerance for Ambiguity (imp:0.87) — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
  Humility (imp:0.72) — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Innovation () — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Tolerance for Ambiguity () — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
  Initiative () — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Adaptability () — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Self-Confidence () — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Perseverance () — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Leadership Orientation () — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
  Humility () — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Sincerity () — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Empathy () — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Cooperation () — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Optimism () — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Social Orientation () — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Stress Tolerance () — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Self-Control () — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res

--- TRANSFERABLE SKILLS ---
  Complex Problem Solving (imp:4.00 lvl:4.00) — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and ev
  Social Perceptiveness (imp:3.88 lvl:3.88) — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
  Coordination (imp:3.88 lvl:3.88) — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
  Judgment and Decision Making (imp:3.75 lvl:3.88) — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the m
  Time Management (imp:3.75 lvl:4.00) — Managing one's own time and the time of others.
  Service Orientation (imp:3.38 lvl:3.25) — Actively looking for ways to help people.
  Persuasion (imp:3.25 lvl:3.25) — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
  Instructing (imp:3.25 lvl:3.62) — Teaching others how to do something.
  Management of Personnel Resources (imp:3.12 lvl:3.25) — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best 
  Negotiation (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
  Operations Analysis (imp:3.00 lvl:3.62) — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
  Systems Analysis (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, 
  Systems Evaluation (imp:2.75 lvl:2.88) — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed 
  Operations Monitoring (imp:2.50 lvl:2.75) — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working pr
  Quality Control Analysis (imp:2.38 lvl:2.25) — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate
  Operation and Control (imp:2.25 lvl:2.00) — Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
  Management of Material Resources (imp:2.25 lvl:2.25) — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materi
  Technology Design (imp:2.00 lvl:2.00) — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
  Equipment Selection (imp:2.00 lvl:1.38) — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
  Troubleshooting (imp:2.00 lvl:1.25) — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
  Management of Financial Resources (imp:2.00 lvl:2.00) — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for the
  Programming (imp:1.38 lvl:0.50) — Writing computer programs for various purposes.
  Installation (imp:1.00) — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
  Equipment Maintenance (imp:1.00) — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind o
  Repairing (imp:1.00) — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.

--- NATIONAL WAGES ---
  total_employment : 6,210
  annual_median    : $289,140
  annual_pct10     : $99,850
  annual_pct25     : $146,580
  annual_pct75     : $342,300
  annual_pct90     : $416,000
  annual_mean      : $259,400
  hourly_median    : $139.01

--- GEOGRAPHIC DISPERSION ---
  highest_state    : Connecticut ($478,680)
  lowest_state     : Georgia ($159,230)
  dispersion_ratio : 3.006x

--- TOP STATES BY WAGE (19 total) ---
  Health Care and Social Assistance        emp:    6,170  median: $ 290,430

--- TOP INDUSTRIES BY EMPLOYMENT (1 total) ---
  Health Care and Social Assistance        emp:    6,170  median: $ 290,430

exact_match_status : found
matched_title      : Orthodontics
match_score        : 0.8800
wikidata_qid       : Q118301
word_count         : 4,706
wikipedia_url      : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orthodontics
license            : CC BY-SA 4.0
fetched_at         : 2026-06-02T21:30:18.636048Z

--- WIKIPEDIA FULL TEXT ---
Orthodontics (also referred to as orthodontia) is a dentistry specialty that addresses the diagnosis, prevention, management, and correction of mal-positioned teeth and jaws, as well as misaligned bite patterns. It may also address the modification of facial growth, known as dentofacial orthopedics.
Abnormal alignment of the teeth and jaws is very common. The approximate worldwide prevalence of malocclusion was as high as 56%. However, conclusive scientific evidence for the health benefits of orthodontic treatment is lacking, although patients with completed treatment have reported a higher quality of life than that of untreated patients undergoing orthodontic treatment. The main reason for the prevalence of these malocclusions is diets with less fresh fruit and vegetables and overall softer foods in childhood, causing smaller jaws with less room for the teeth to erupt. Treatment may require several months to a few years and entails using dental braces and other appliances to gradually adjust tooth position and jaw alignment. In cases where the malocclusion is severe, jaw surgery may be incorporated into the treatment plan. Treatment usually begins before a person reaches adulthood, insofar as pre-adult bones may be adjusted more easily before adulthood.


== History ==
Though it was rare until the Industrial Revolution, there is evidence of the issue of overcrowded, irregular, and protruding teeth afflicting individuals. Evidence from Greek and Etruscan materials suggests that attempts to treat this disorder date back to 1000 BC, showcasing primitive yet impressively well-crafted orthodontic appliances. In the 18th and 19th centuries, a range of devices for the "regulation" of teeth were described by various dentistry authors who occasionally put them into practice. As a modern science, orthodontics dates back to the mid-1800s. The field's influential contributors include Norman William Kingsley (1829–1913) and Edward Angle (1855–1930). Angle created the first basic system for classifying malocclusions, a system that remains in use today.
Beginning in the mid-1800s, Norman Kingsley published Oral Deformities, which is now credited as one of the first works to begin systematically documenting orthodontics. Being a major presence in American dentistry during the latter half of the 19th century, not only was Kingsley one of the early users of extraoral force to correct protruding teeth, but he was also one of the pioneers for treating cleft palates and associated issues.
During the era of orthodontics under Kingsley and his colleagues, the treatment was focused on straightening teeth and creating facial harmony. Ignoring occlusal relationships, it was typical to remove teeth for a variety of dental issues, such as malalignment or overcrowding. The concept of an intact dentition was not widely appreciated in those days, making bite correlations seem irrelevant.
In the late 1800s, the concept of occlusion was essential for creating reliable prosthetic replacement teeth. This idea was further refined and ultimately applied in various ways when dealing with healthy dental structures as well. As these concepts of prosthetic occlusion progressed, it became an invaluable tool for dentistry.
It was in 1890 that the work and impact of Dr. Edwards H. Angle began to be felt, with his contribution to modern orthodontics particularly noteworthy. Initially focused on prosthodontics, he taught in Pennsylvania and Minnesota before directing his attention towards dental occlusion and the treatments needed to maintain it as a normal condition, thus becoming known as the "father of modern orthodontics".
By the beginning of the 20th century, orthodontics had become more than just the straightening of crooked teeth. The concept of ideal occlusion, as postulated by Angle and incorporated into a classification system, enabled a shift towards treating malocclusion, which is any deviation from normal occlusion. Having a full set of teeth on both arches was highly sought after in orthodontic treatment due to the need for exact relationships between them. Extraction as an orthodontic procedure was heavily opposed by Angle and those who followed him. As occlusion became the key priority, facial proportions and aesthetics were neglected. To achieve ideal occlusals without using external forces, Angle postulated that having perfect occlusion was the best way to gain optimum facial aesthetics.
With the passing of time, it became quite evident that even an exceptional occlusion was not suitable when considered from an aesthetic point of view. Not only were there issues related to aesthetics, but it usually proved impossible to keep a precise occlusal relationship achieved by forcing teeth together over extended durations with the use of robust elastics, something Angle and his students had previously suggested. Charles Tweed in America and Raymond Begg in Australia (who both studied under Angle) re-introduced dentistry extraction into orthodontics during the 1940s and 1950s so they could improve facial esthetics while also ensuring better stability concerning occlusal relationships.
In the postwar period, cephalometric radiography started to be used by orthodontists for measuring changes in tooth and jaw position caused by growth and treatment. The x-rays showed that many Class II and III malocclusions were due to improper jaw relations as opposed to misaligned teeth. It became evident that orthodontic therapy could adjust mandibular development, leading to the formation of functional jaw orthopedics in Europe and extraoral force measures in the US. These days, both functional appliances and extraoral devices are applied around the globe with the aim of amending growth patterns and forms. Consequently, pursuing true, or at least improved, jaw relationships had become the main objective of treatment by the mid-20th century.
At the beginning of the twentieth century, orthodontics was in need of an upgrade. The American Journal of Orthodontics was created for this purpose in 1915; before it, there were no scientific objectives to follow, nor any precise classification system and brackets that lacked features.
Until the mid-1970s, braces were made by wrapping metal around each tooth. With advancements in adhesives, it became possible to instead bond metal brackets to the teeth.
In 1972, Lawrence F. Andrews gave an insightful definition of the ideal occlusion in permanent teeth. This has had meaningful effects on orthodontic treatments that are administered regularly, and these are: 1. Correct interarchal relationships 2. Correct crown angulation (tip) 3. Correct crown inclination (torque) 4. No rotations 5. Tight contact points 6. Flat Curve of Spee (0.0–2.5 mm), and based on these principles, he discovered a treatment system called the straight-wire appliance system, or the pre-adjusted edgewise system. Introduced in 1976, Larry Andrews' pre-adjusted edgewise appliance, more commonly known as the straight wire appliance, has since revolutionized fixed orthodontic treatment. The advantage of the design lies in its bracket and archwire combination, which requires only minimal wire bending from the orthodontist or clinician. It's aptly named after this feature: the angle of the slot and thickness of the bracket base ultimately determine where each tooth is situated with little need for extra manipulation.
Prior to the invention of a straight wire appliance, orthodontists were utilizing a non-programmed standard edgewise fixed appliance system, or Begg's pin and tube system. Both of these systems employed identical brackets for each tooth and necessitated the bending of an archwire in three planes for locating teeth in their desired positions, with these bends dictating ultimate placements.


== Evolution of the current orthodontic appliances ==
When it comes to orthodontic appliances, they are divided into two types: removable and fixed. Removable appliances can be taken on and off by th

--- SEMANTIC NEIGHBORS (5) ---

  Title: American Association of Orthodontists (similarity: 0.5200)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Association_of_Orthodontists
  QID: Q4743081
  Extract: Founded in 1900, the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) is the world's oldest and largest dental specialty organization. It represents nearly 19,000 orthodontist members throughout the United States, Canada and abroad. All orthodontists are dentists and may simultaneously hold membership in

  Title: Clear aligners (similarity: 0.2222)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clear_aligners
  QID: Q593903
  Extract: Clear aligners are orthodontic devices that are a transparent, plastic form of dental braces used to adjust teeth.

  Title: Mewing (orthotropics) (similarity: 0.4706)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mewing_(orthotropics)
  QID: Q68921987
  Extract: Mewing is an unproven form of oral posture training purported to improve jaw and facial structure. It was named after British orthodontist John Mew, who created the technique as a part of a practice called "orthotropics", together with his son Mike. It involves placing one's tongue at the roof of th

  Title: Canadian Association of Orthodontists (similarity: 0.5200)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canadian_Association_of_Orthodontists
  QID: Q5029727
  Extract: The Canadian Association of Orthodontists, founded in 1949, is the Canadian national organization of educationally qualified orthodontic specialists. It is headquartered in Markham, Ontario.

  Title: James A. McNamara (similarity: 0.0667)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_A._McNamara
  QID: Q6128195
  Extract: James A. McNamara Jr. is an American-trained, board certified, orthodontist. He is known for his development of McNamara analysis, one of the more popular methods of cephalometric analysis in cephalometry.

model_pass1          : claude-sonnet-4-20250514
model_pass2          : claude-haiku-4-5-20251001
inference_confidence : high
confidence_notes     : Strong confidence based on comprehensive O*NET data, clear educational pathways, robust wage data from BLS OEWS, and excellent Wikipedia match confirming the specialty definition and scope of practice.
inferred_at          : 2026-06-03T18:36:16.951766+00:00
tokens_input         : 4,701
tokens_output        : 4,467
cost_usd             : $0.048918
wikipedia_used       : True
wikipedia_title      : Orthodontics
wikipedia_note       : The Wikipedia match confirms orthodontics as a dentistry specialty focused on diagnosis, prevention, and correction of mal-positioned teeth and jaws, including dentofacial orthopedics for facial growth modification. This aligns with the O*NET occupation description and reinforces the specialty's dual focus on function and aesthetics.

--- PROSE FIELDS ---

ROLE SUMMARY:
Orthodontists are specialized dental physicians who diagnose, prevent, and treat malocclusions and dental-facial irregularities through the design and application of corrective appliances. They combine advanced medical knowledge with precise manual dexterity to realign teeth and jaws, improving both function and appearance. According to O*NET data, this role requires extensive preparation with 68.9% holding post-doctoral training and demonstrating high investigative and realistic RIASEC orientations.

DAY IN THE LIFE:
Orthodontists begin by examining patients to assess abnormalities in jaw development and tooth positioning, studying diagnostic records including medical histories and plaster models. They design and fabricate custom appliances such as retainers, space maintainers, and arch wires, then fit these devices in patients' mouths with precise adjustments. Patient communication forms a substantial portion of their day, providing treatment plans with cost estimates and advising compliance with treatment protocols. Documentation requirements include preparing diagnostic and treatment records, while they may also instruct dental assistants and officers in orthodontic procedures. Their work demands exceptional arm-hand steadiness combined with complex problem-solving as they monitor treatment progress and make ongoing appliance adjustments.

WHO THRIVES:
Successful orthodontists possess exceptional problem sensitivity and deductive reasoning abilities, enabling them to diagnose complex dental-facial irregularities and develop effective treatment strategies. They excel in interpersonal communication with high oral comprehension and expression skills, essential for explaining treatment plans and maintaining patient relationships throughout lengthy treatment periods. The role attracts individuals with strong investigative tendencies who enjoy continuous learning and updating their knowledge of advancing orthodontic techniques. Dependability and attention to detail are critical work style requirements, as treatment errors can have lasting consequences for patients' oral health and facial aesthetics.

CAREER ENTRY:
Entry into orthodontics requires completion of dental school followed by a specialized orthodontic residency program, typically 2-3 years of additional training. The educational pathway includes a bachelor's degree, four years of dental school, and post-doctoral orthodontic training, with 68.9% of practitioners holding post-doctoral credentials. Board certification through the American Board of Orthodontics provides professional credentialing. Some practitioners pursue additional fellowship training in areas like dentofacial orthopedics or specific treatment modalities.

CAREER TRAJECTORY:
Orthodontists typically progress from associate positions in established practices to practice ownership or partnership arrangements within 5-10 years. Advanced career paths include specialization in complex cases such as surgical orthodontics, pediatric orthodontics, or adult treatment with clear aligners. Academic opportunities exist in dental schools teaching orthodontic residents and conducting research in treatment techniques and materials. Some practitioners develop expertise in practice management and expand to multiple locations, while others focus on specialized patient populations or innovative treatment technologies.

MARKET INTELLIGENCE:
The orthodontic field offers exceptional compensation with a median annual wage of $289,140 according to BLS OEWS May 2025 data, ranging from $99,850 to $416,000 across the 90th percentile. Employment totals 6,210 practitioners nationally, with significant geographic wage variation from Georgia's $159,230 to Connecticut's $478,680 median. The field shows geographic concentration in affluent suburban areas where families can afford elective orthodontic treatment. Demand remains strong driven by increased adult treatment acceptance and technological advances like clear aligners expanding the patient base. The profession benefits from demographic trends including greater emphasis on dental aesthetics and oral health awareness.

AUTOMATION OUTLOOK:
Orthodontics faces moderate automation pressure as digital treatment planning and 3D printing technologies streamline appliance design and fabrication processes. However, the core activities of patient examination, diagnosis, and appliance adjustment require human clinical judgment and manual dexterity that resist automation. The profession may see increased efficiency through digital workflows and AI-assisted treatment planning while maintaining strong demand for human expertise in complex case management and patient relationships.

--- REASONED EDGES ---
  [career_pathway] Dentists, General (29-1021.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: General dentists provide the foundational education path, with orthodontics being a dental specialty requiring completion of dental school first.
    data: Post-Doctoral Training: 68.9%
    data: Medicine and Dentistry knowledge (imp:5.0, lvl:6.0)
  [riasec_cluster] Prosthodontists (29-1024.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both specialties share high investigative and realistic RIASEC codes with similar manual dexterity requirements and dental appliance expertise.
    data: I:5.72, R:5.60 RIASEC profile
    data: Arm-Hand Steadiness (imp:4.0, lvl:3.9)
    data: Design and fabricate appliances task
  [knowledge_overlap] Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (29-1022.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both roles require advanced medicine and dentistry knowledge with focus on dental-facial structures and treatment planning.
    data: Medicine and Dentistry (imp:5.0, lvl:6.0)
    data: Diagnose teeth and jaw abnormalities task
    data: Job Zone 5
  [task_similarity] Dental Assistants (31-9091.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Orthodontists directly supervise and train dental assistants in orthodontic procedures, sharing common work activities in patient care.
    data: Instruct dental officers and technical assistants task
    data: Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships (imp:4.3)
  [wage_band] Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric (29-1241.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Both medical specialties fall within similar high-wage professional ranges requiring extensive post-graduate training.
    data: Median annual: $289,140
    data: Post-Doctoral Training: 68.9%
    data: Job Zone 5

--- NORMALIZER SIGNALS ---
  match_keywords   : ['orthodontist', 'orthodontic', 'dentofacial orthopedics', 'malocclusion', 'dental appliances', 'teeth alignment', 'jaw realignment', 'braces specialist']
  exclude_keywords : ['general dentist', 'oral surgeon', 'prosthodontist', 'endodontist', 'periodontist']
  title_patterns   : ['Board Certified Orthodontist', 'Orthodontic Specialist', 'Dentofacial Orthopedics', 'Orthodontics Doctor', 'Pediatric Orthodontist']
  common_variations: ['orthodontist', 'orthodontic dentist', 'orthodontic specialist', 'braces doctor', 'teeth straightening specialist', 'jaw alignment specialist', 'dentofacial orthopedics specialist', 'orthodontics practitioner']

total_terms    : 40
top_words      : ['teeth', 'treatment', 'orthodontic', 'dental', 'tendency', 'others', 'appliances', 'appliance', 'orthodontics', 'equipment', 'patient', 'control', 'arch', 'tooth', 'fixed', 'brackets', 'angle', 'patients', 'principles', 'braces']
source_layers  : onet_tasks | onet_dimensions | dwas | wikipedia | inference

TERM                    COUNT     FREQ  DOMINANT SOURCE      SOURCE BREAKDOWN
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
teeth                      72  0.01415  wikipedia            wikipedia:89%  onet_tasks:7%  inference:3%
treatment                  62  0.01218  wikipedia            wikipedia:58%  inference:26%  onet_tasks:6%
orthodontic                55  0.01081  wikipedia            wikipedia:84%  inference:13%  onet_tasks:4%
dental                     44  0.00865  wikipedia            wikipedia:59%  inference:18%  onet_tasks:16%
tendency                   43  0.00845  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:98%  wikipedia:2%
others                     39  0.00766  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:97%  inference:3%
appliances                 38  0.00747  wikipedia            wikipedia:79%  onet_tasks:8%  dwas:8%
appliance                  34  0.00668  wikipedia            wikipedia:91%  inference:9%
orthodontics               24  0.00472  wikipedia            wikipedia:75%  inference:25%
equipment                  23  0.00452  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
patient                    22  0.00432  wikipedia            wikipedia:50%  inference:27%  dwas:14%
control                    22  0.00432  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:55%  wikipedia:45%
arch                       21  0.00413  wikipedia            wikipedia:90%  onet_tasks:5%  inference:5%
tooth                      21  0.00413  wikipedia            wikipedia:90%  onet_tasks:5%  inference:5%
fixed                      20  0.00393  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
brackets                   19  0.00373  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
angle                      18  0.00354  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
patients                   17  0.00334  wikipedia            wikipedia:41%  onet_tasks:24%  inference:18%
principles                 17  0.00334  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:94%  wikipedia:6%
braces                     17  0.00334  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
edgewise                   17  0.00334  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
facial                     16  0.00314  wikipedia            wikipedia:56%  inference:25%  onet_tasks:12%
wire                       16  0.00314  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
jaw                        15  0.00295  wikipedia            wikipedia:80%  onet_tasks:13%  inference:7%
devices                    15  0.00295  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:33%  wikipedia:33%  dwas:27%
oral                       14  0.00275  wikipedia            wikipedia:57%  onet_dimensions:21%  inference:21%
bracket                    14  0.00275  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
design                     13  0.00255  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:46%  inference:23%  wikipedia:15%
techniques                 13  0.00255  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:77%  inference:15%  onet_tasks:8%
includes                   13  0.00255  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:92%  inference:8%
years                      13  0.00255  wikipedia            wikipedia:77%  inference:23%
orthodontists              13  0.00255  wikipedia            wikipedia:69%  inference:31%
medical                    12  0.00236  dwas                 dwas:42%  onet_tasks:17%  wikipedia:17%
dentistry                  12  0.00236  wikipedia            wikipedia:83%  onet_dimensions:8%  inference:8%
materials                  12  0.00236  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:83%  wikipedia:8%  inference:8%
objects                    12  0.00236  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
removable                  12  0.00236  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
retainers                  11  0.00216  wikipedia            wikipedia:82%  onet_tasks:9%  inference:9%
ideas                      11  0.00216  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
specialty                  11  0.00216  wikipedia            wikipedia:82%  inference:18%