What kind of license does an orthodontist need?
A dental license for the state he practices in at a minimum. There may be additional requirements depending upon the individual state. In order to be a specialist in orthodontics (orthodontist) a minimum of 2 years of an orthodontic residency must be completed leading to a certificate in orthodontics. Some programs also lead to a Master's degree. The accomplishment of obtaining a Master's degree is performed by completing a research project, writing and defending a thesis. All programs, whether they are certificate programs or Master's programs require some research work, but a Master's program requires writing and defending a thesis. Which orthodontist is a better clinician? There is no difference in clinical skills. The difference is that the Master's degree enables the orthodontist to go back into teaching (academics) and/or to be involved in research if he or she so chooses.