The Cert HE in Orthodontic Therapy will allow Dental nurses working in Orthodontic practices to register as an Orthodontic Therapist with the General Dental Council (GDC), once they have successfully completed the Royal College of Surgeons Examination. The Certificate in Higher Education from UCLan will lead to a Diploma in Orthodontic Therapy from the Royal College of Surgeons upon completion of a final exam sat at the Royal College of Surgeons. The opportunity for career progression as a result of completing this award will ensure that the nurse can play a much more active role within the dental team, providing treatment under the supervision of the dentist. 

Key Facts

Entry Requirements

• GCSE English, Mathematics and Science at Grade C or above, or equivalent
• NVQ Level 3 in Oral Healthcare, or equivalent
• Current employment as a dental nurse, dental hygienist, dental therapist or dental technician, and being on the statutory register
• At least one year full-time post-qualification experience, or equivalent.

Course Content

Basic sciences relevant to the principles and clinical application of Orthodontic Therapy will be studied. The student will then be expected to gain and enhance their clinical skills in the insertion, placement, fitment, and removal of fixed, removable or and headgear orthodontic appliances.

Course at a Glance

The three modules will run concurrently and will be delivered over a period of 45 weeks. 

Year 1

Principles of Orthodontic Therapy (Double Module)

Clinical Application of Orthodontic Therapy (Triple Module)

Specialist Study Module (Single Module)

Links with Professional Bodies:

The Cert HE Orthodontic Therapy has been provisionally approved by the General Dental Council.

Assessment:

Knowledge and understanding will be assessed by short written examinations. Clinical competency will be assessed by mini clinical evaluation exercises under lab conditions, by direct observation of procedural skills, and by a progressive logbook of clinical activity. Students will also have to undertake a special study module and produce a written essay and PowerPoint presentation summarising research within an area related to orthodontic therapy.

Learning Environment:

Students will attend formal lectures, seminars, group discussions/tutorials, demonstrations and practical sessions in the Phantom Head Laboratory. In Clinical Practice, students will receive one-to-one tuition from the Clinical Mentor.

Careers:

Upon successful completion of the programme, students will be eligible for entry to the examinations of the Royal College of Surgeons. Success within these examinations will enable the student to register with the General Dental Council as an Orthodontic Therapist and undertake the role of an Orthodontic Therapist in Clinical Practice.