06 October 08
The first students to become qualified Orthodontic Therapists
have just graduated from the University Hospitals Bristol NHS
Foundation Trusts Bristol Dental Hospital. Orthodontic Therapists
are a new group of Dental Care Professionals created by the General
Dental Council. They can assist dentists in carrying out
orthodontic treatment and provide some treatment themselves.
Six students from the Trust piloted the year long programme back
in October 2007. The course involves a four week intensive taught
program led by Consultant Orthodontists combined with a placement
treating patients studying under a registered specialist
Orthodontist Trainer.
Sarah Bain, Head of Dental Care Professional training, says: Im
absolutely delighted to the see the first Orthodontic Therapists
qualify. They will now make a significant impact on the number of
patients accessing orthodontic care.
This new qualification is part of a government drive to improve
the speed and quality of orthodontic care. Qualified Orthodontic
Therapists will carry out routine and emergency procedures which
should reduce waiting lists for more specialised treatments.
The Dental Care Professionals School at Bristol is one of the
largest providers of Dental Care Professional programmes in the UK.
Currently any qualified Dental Care Professional is eligible to
apply for the course. To find out more about Dental Care
Professionals or applying for the Orthodontic Therapist Programme,
please contact Wendy Lee on 0117 342 44111 or email wendy.lee@uhbristol.nhs.uk.
