Orthodontists specialise in diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities, often through the use of braces or other corrective devices. If you’re a dentist looking to specialise in orthodontics, here’s a guide to the steps you need to take.
Gain Experience as a Dentist
Before specialising in orthodontics, it’s important to gain experience as a general dentist. This experience will help you develop essential skills and knowledge in patient care, dental procedures, and overall oral health. Working as a dentist allows you to refine your clinical skills and better understand various dental conditions, which is crucial when you later move into a specialty like orthodontics.
Most dentists spend a few years in general practice to build a solid foundation before applying for orthodontic specialization (Source: Ocean North Orthodontic Clinic). During this time, it’s beneficial to attend orthodontic courses or workshops to gain insight into the field and confirm your interest in specialising.
Apply for an Orthodontic Specialty Training Programme
To become an orthodontist, you must complete a recognized orthodontic specialty training programme. These programmes are highly competitive, so it’s important to prepare thoroughly. In the UK, orthodontic training typically lasts three years and leads to a Master of Science (MSc) degree in Orthodontics.
To apply, you’ll need to have completed a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree and have full registration with the General Dental Council (GDC). Additionally, having several years of experience in general dentistry and evidence of continued professional development (CPD) will strengthen your application.
During the application process, you’ll need to provide your academic records, references, and possibly attend an interview. It’s also advisable to gain experience in a hospital setting, such as working as a Dental Core Trainee (DCT) in oral surgery or paediatric dentistry, which can improve your chances of being accepted into a programme.
Complete Specialty Training
Once accepted into a specialty training programme, you’ll undergo three years of intensive education and clinical training in orthodontics. This training combines academic study with hands-on experience. You’ll learn about the diagnosis and treatment of dental and facial irregularities, the use of orthodontic appliances, and patient management.
The training includes working in both university settings and hospitals, where you’ll treat patients under the supervision of experienced orthodontists. You’ll also study related subjects such as craniofacial growth and development, biomechanics, and advanced dental materials. By the end of the programme, you’ll have gained the knowledge and skills necessary to practice as an orthodontist.
Obtain Membership in Orthodontics (MOrth)
After completing your orthodontic specialty training, the next step is to pass the Membership in Orthodontics (MOrth) exam. This exam is administered by the Royal Colleges of Surgeons in the UK and is a key requirement to practice as a specialist orthodontist. The MOrth exam assesses your clinical skills, knowledge, and ability to apply orthodontic principles in practice.
Successfully passing the MOrth exam demonstrates your competence and allows you to join the GDC’s Specialist Register in Orthodontics. Being on the Specialist Register is essential for working as an orthodontist in the UK.
Start Practicing as an Orthodontist
With your MOrth qualification and registration as a specialist, you can now begin practicing as an orthodontist. You may choose to work in a hospital, join an orthodontic practice, or even open your own practice. Continuing professional development is important to stay updated with the latest advancements in orthodontics and maintain your specialist status.
Specialising as an orthodontist in the UK involves gaining experience as a dentist, completing a competitive specialty training programme, and passing the MOrth exam. While the path requires dedication and hard work, it leads to a fulfilling career focused on improving patients' dental health and confidence.