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Orthodontic therapist

An orthodontic therapist works alongside a specialist orthodontist or dentist to carry out routine orthodontic treatment.

The work of an orthodontic therapist

The role of an orthodontic therapist includes:

  • fitting orthodontic headgear, facebows, tooth separators and bonded retainers
  • taking impressions
  • placing brackets and bands on teeth
  • giving advice on appliance care

Skills required

You will need a high standard of work and personal commitment. You will also require:

  • a high level of manual dexterity (be good with your hands)
  • good eyesight
  • good physical health
  • a friendly and sympathetic approach with a calm, confident and reassuring way
  • an ability to relate well to a wide range of people

You should also be able to work well in a team and have good organisational skills to manage the administrative aspects of the job.

Training programmes

A Diploma in Orthodontic Therapy will lead to registration with the General Dental Council (GDC) as an orthodontic therapist.  For more details, visit the GDC website.

Entry qualifications

To train as an orthodontic therapist, you need to be qualified in dental nursing, dental hygiene, dental therapy or dental technology. You also need to have a period of post-qualification experience.

Professional recognition

To practise in the UK in any of the Dental Care Professions you must register with the professional regulator, the General Dental Council (GDC).

To join the registers applicants need to meet the professional standards set by the GDC.

More useful links

  • British Association of Dental Nurses website
  • British Society of Dental Hygiene and Therapy website
  • British Association of Dental Therapists website
  • Dental Technologists Association website
  • Clinical Dental Technicians Association website
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Dental careers

  • Dental hygienist
  • Dental nurse
  • Dental technician/ technologist
  • Dental therapist
  • Dentist
  • Orthodontic therapist

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