Orthodontic therapist
Level 4 · HigherHealth and science 1.1 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
Orthodontic therapists carry out orthodontic treatment procedures under the direction of a specialist orthodontist, including fitting, adjusting, and removing fixed and removable appliances. Apprentices register with the General Dental Council and work in NHS and private orthodontic practices. The role offers a focused clinical career in orthodontics with opportunities to support complex patient cases.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Orthodontic theory, tooth movement, and growth and development
Clinical skills for fitting and adjusting fixed appliances and brackets
Removal of orthodontic archwires, bands, and bonded retainers
Orthodontic record-taking including study models and photographs
GDC standards, consent, and safeguarding in orthodontics
Patient communication, motivation, and oral health in orthodontics
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Fit and bond orthodontic brackets and bands under direction
Place, adjust, and change archwires during treatment
Remove fixed appliances and carry out bond-up debond procedures
Take impressions, photographs, and orthodontic records
Provide oral hygiene advice to orthodontic patients
Update clinical records and support the orthodontist in treatment planning
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 4 (Higher) - roughly Foundation-degree level. Usually needs Level 3 (A-levels, a T-Level, or an Advanced apprenticeship) or relevant experience.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 5/6 apprenticeship or a more senior role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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