There have been significant changes in the way in which orthodontics has been delivered since the last major workforce study was undertaken. The major change has been the introduction of orthodontic therapists in the UK. This paper aims to outline for the general dental practitioner the role of orthodontic therapists, including their scope of practice, along with discussion regarding their integration into specialist orthodontic practice in both the primary and secondary care setting, illustrated in part from the authors' experience.
Clinical Relevance: This article aims to outline how orthodontic therapists work as part of the orthodontic team, the procedures they can undertake, along with discussion regarding their integration into specialist orthodontic practice in both the primary and the secondary care setting.
Article
Since the last major workforce study was conducted and published in 20051 there have been significant changes in the delivery of care. One of the major changes has been the increase in manpower and improved access to specialist led orthodontic care due to the introduction of orthodontic therapists. Working under appropriate supervision2 and following a prescription, orthodontic therapists are permitted to undertake numerous reversible orthodontic procedures, as detailed in the GDC Scope of Practice documentation.3 The specific capabilities of orthodontic therapists are listed along with all other dental registrants in the GDC Preparing for Practice and Dental Team Learning Outcomes for Registration documents.4
Orthodontic therapists are a recent addition to the Dental Care Professionals group of GDC registrants and have, in a short space of time, proved to be important members of the dental team. They are permitted to undertake a number of orthodontic procedures under prescription from a dental surgeon.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Orthodontic Update and reading some of our resources. To read more, please register today. You’ll enjoy the following great benefits:
