Search Dictionary
Definition of orthodontist
orthodontist
/ˌɔːrθəˈdɑːntɪst/
or · tho · don · tist
Plural:orthodontists
•Adjective:orthodontic
orthodontist Lexical Profile
CEFR
B2
Grade
7
Tier
2
Usage
Top 10k
Syllables
4
orthodontist Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• noun
1
A dental specialist who diagnoses, prevents, and corrects irregularities in the alignment of the teeth and jaws, typically through the use of braces, retainers, and clear aligners.
Example
"The orthodontist adjusted her braces during the monthly checkup to ensure her teeth were shifting into the proper position."
Word Nuance & Usage
While all orthodontists are licensed dentists, not all dentists are orthodontists; an orthodontist has completed additional postgraduate training specifically focused on aligning teeth and jaws rather than general dental care like fillings or cleanings.
• Rhymes for orthodontist
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined in the late 19th century from
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.
180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Orthodontist. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/orthodontist