An orthodontist is a specialist in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. The practice of orthodontics involves the design, application and control of braces and corrective appliances that are used to treat and correct these problems so that optimum dental function, stability and facial esthetics are achieved. An Orthodontist is required to first attend college, then complete a four year graduate dental program and finally complete an additional two or three year orthodontic post-graduate program. Only about 6% of dentists have these qualifications.