If you want to develop your skills and create a profitable new revenue stream as a general practitioner, then orthodontics training is a good way to go.
But if you are already working in general dentistry, it can be a tough decision to determine which type of orthodontic education would best suit your current situation. We’ve put this quick guide together to explain the different orthodontics training routes available so that you can improve your CV and skills without it having a detrimental impact on your life, long-term career prospects or indeed bank balance.
Returning to study on a full-time basis
Making the decision to return to study full-time is often simply not an option for many practitioners who are already working within general dentistry.
With the loss of a regular pay cheque being one of the main reasons for not undertaking orthodontic education on a full-time basis, most people who’ve already completed their studies at university have now got used to their new work/life balance and don’t want to give up on the progress they’ve already made in their careers so far.
For those that haven’t yet taken up a position in general dentistry, going back to study orthodontics full-time is an option. Still, it can be incredibly expensive and difficult to finance without some form of further student loan or sponsorship.
Part-time orthodontic pathways
For those who are settled in their general dentistry positions, part-time learning offers a greater degree of flexibility, the ability to spread the cost of any orthodontic training undertaken and the chance to keep their current jobs.
However, you might still need to factor in the schedule of the course as it will likely clash with current practice opening times. Any travel time required to reach the training facility also needs to be considered as it could mean less time at work.
Blended learning routes
One of the most effective and popular orthodontic education routes available to general dentistry practitioners is a blended learning approach.
At the London Dental Institute, we offer a 12-month course that uses both online learning and face to face residential teaching blocks to ensure that both the theory and execution elements of orthodontics and dentofacial orthopaedics, with each student able to achieve a UK accredited Postgraduate Diploma in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics qualification at the end of the course.
Built upon a solid foundation of evidence-based practice and scientific research, students will learn how to achieve excellent clinical results by following current diagnostic and clinical treatment concepts and benefit from ongoing support from experts in the field of orthodontics without having to sacrifice potential earnings or leave a role they enjoy to improve their knowledge.
To find out more about our Diploma in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics qualifications, click here.
