Orthodontic Therapist
An Orthodontic Therapist is a highly skilled member of a specialised dental team. All orthodontic treatment requires to be planned by a Dentist, often with additional specialised training and qualification. An Orthodontic Therapist assists in the delivery of this treatment by working directly with patients to adjust and monitor orthodontic appliances ( braces ). An Orthodontic Therapist typically undertakes the routine management of patients who are undergoing orthodontic treatment once the treatment has been planned and prescribed by a Dentist.
Orthodontic Therapists typically work in specialist high street orthodontic practices where a specialist Orthodontist is responsible for planning and prescribing the treatment. There are some opportunities to work in NHS health board settings in some circumstances.
NES provide a programme for GDC-registered dental care professionals to train as an orthodontic therapist, with the course operating every 18 months. The exit examination is the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh Diploma in Orthodontic Therapy.