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Mastering Orthodontic Techniques. A Comprehensive Guide for Aspiring Orthodontists

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People, medicine, stomatology and health care concept happy male dentist showing tablet pc computer to woman patient at dental clinic office.
People, medicine, stomatology and health care concept happy male dentist showing tablet pc computer to woman patient at dental clinic office.

Introduction

Orthodontics is a specialised field within dentistry that focuses on correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. Aspiring orthodontists undergo rigorous training to master the art and science of orthodontic techniques. In recent years, digital orthodontics has emerged as a game-changer, revolutionising the way orthodontic treatments are planned and executed. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the essential techniques every aspiring orthodontist should master, with a special emphasis on digital orthodontics.

Understanding the Basics

Before diving into advanced techniques, it’s crucial to have a solid understanding of orthodontic fundamentals. Aspiring orthodontists should be well-versed in:
Dental Anatomy
A thorough knowledge of tooth morphology, occlusion, and dental arches.

Growth and Development

Understanding craniofacial growth patterns and how they impact orthodontic treatment.

Diagnosis

The ability to diagnose and characterise anomalies in dentition and craniofacial structures.
Treatment Planning
Formulating controlled and predictable treatment plans.

Traditional Orthodontic Techniques

Traditional orthodontic methods involve fixed braces, wires, and elastics. Aspiring orthodontists should master:
Bracket Placement Precise placement of brackets on teeth.
Archwire Selection Choosing the right archwire for each patient.
Adjustments Regular adjustments to achieve desired tooth movement.
Retention Ensuring long-term stability post-treatment.

Digital Orthodontics

Digital technology has transformed orthodontics. Aspiring orthodontists should explore:
Intra-oral Scanning Learning to use intraoral scanners for accurate digital impressions.
3D Imaging Understanding cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and its applications.
Clear Aligners Mastering the design and use of clear aligners.
Virtual Treatment Planning Using software to simulate treatment outcomes.

Postgraduate Diploma in Digital Orthodontics

Enrolling in a Postgraduate Diploma in Digital Orthodontics provides a structured pathway to expertise. Here are the key highlights.
Duration
Typically a 12-month program.
Curriculum
Covers clear aligners, digital treatment planning, and evidence-based practices.

Mentorship
Access to experienced orthodontists for guidance.
Self-Paced Learning
Requires 1-2 hours per week.
Qualification
Upon completion, graduates receive a recognized diploma.

Mastering orthodontic techniques, both traditional and digital, is essential for aspiring orthodontists. Whether you choose fixed braces or clear aligners, staying updated with the latest advancements ensures successful patient outcomes. Consider enrolling in a Postgraduate Diploma in Digital Orthodontics to enhance your skills and contribute to the ever evolving field of orthodontics.
Remember, precision and continuous learning are the cornerstones of excellence in orthodontics!- enrol today!
(LINK TO ENROLMENT FORM).

References:
Ono, T., Pangrazio-Kulbersh, V., Czochrowska, E., et al. (2023). World Federation of Orthodontists guidelines for postgraduate orthodontic education. Journal of the World Federation of Orthodontists, 2(2), 1-31
Smile Dental Academy. (n.d.). Postgraduate Diploma in Orthodontics. Retrieved from here2
JoinLeland. (n.d.). Orthodontist Schooling: A Complete Guide to Becoming an Orthodontist. Retrieved from here3
Digital Orthodontic College. (2021). UK accredited Postgraduate Diploma in Digital Orthodontics. Retrieved from here4

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What People Are Saying

  • I completed the BOSS UK Diploma in 2021 and when it became available, signed up for the AU course as well. I completed the AU course at the end of last year and can honestly say BOSS (now Digital Orthodontic College) has completely changed my approach to clear aligner treatments and increased my confidence with treatment planning immensely. The fact that the course is 100% online was a huge drawcard for me initially since I have two young children, work clinically part-time and run my own business. It allowed me the flexibility to study when I had the chance and didn’t result in any loss of clinical time. Dr V is extremely passionate about orthodontics and more importantly sharing her wisdom and that comes through in her approach to teaching. The course is extremely comprehensive (NB: the AU course has quite a few complex assessments) and covers everything starting from the basics of tooth movement, which sets a good foundation and is therefore suitable even for beginners. The monthly/bimonthly webinars allow students to share cases and is a safe space, non-judgmental and therefore an incredible learning platform. I had been doing clear aligner treatments prior to starting this course, but BOSS helped me see patients with new eyes and has overhauled my treatment planning approach. I would not hesitate to recommend this course to anyone interested in learning, or to extend their knowledge about, clear aligner treatments.

    Thank you so much Dr V!

    Dr Lora Banicevic, Dentist NSW

  • The Australian accredited 10905NAT Graduate Diploma of Digital Orthodontic Treatment offers comprehensive training in the field, gives the candidate the opportunity to do things in a self-paced manner, while getting a personalised 1-on-1 learning experience with Dr Vandana Katyal. It was an excellent choice for me and gave me the flexibility to get the well-designed training done in my own time frame. I would strongly recommend the course to any practitioners who is looking to upskill themselves with a no-compromise high quality course, while also having to juggle between busy practices and family schedules.

    Dr Charles Sun, Dentist WA
  • I started this course unsure of how much I would benefit. The in-person lectures were fantastic (although the course is now 100% online) where I made good friends and learned a lot. The online resources are extensive and second to none, accessible at your convenience. The webinars were great – usually with the right mix of teaching, cases demonstrated and the attendees’ cases being discussed. I was also invited to deliver a webinar on intra-oral scanners, 3D printers and in house aligner manufacturing (from a dentist’s point of view) – which I enjoyed.
    Most of all the course gave significantly more confidence what can be done with aligners, how plan the setup efficiently with the end in mind and how to make the processes to get there smoother. As a result, a MUCH larger chunk of my work is now aligner based. My conversion rate for aligner treatments has definitely increased along with my confidence. The course has easily paid for itself. Full disclosure: I was invited to deliver a webinar on intra-oral scanners, 3D printers and in house aligner manufacture to my BOSS batch mates, which I also thoroughly enjoyed doing. I declined any remuneration for this, although it was offered.
    Dr Shammi Moopen, Dentist VIC

  • Since I have joined the postgraduate diploma in orthodontics I have noticed all the applied practical learning/knowledge on my patients and I am only half way through the year. Dr Vandana is a genuine educator. She goes way beyond to simplify every lecture and I really like her evidence based information and that is available for us 24/7. Her webinars helped a lot for busy dentists and loved the feedback we get in the one on one sessions with our cases. It make us think every step of the way. But the best thing I like is to see she is giving back to the community and her association with Smile Train in helping children with cleft palate is just beyond words. Thank you so much for being nice and approachable.

    Dr Claudia Braybon, Dentist NSW
  • Received my Diploma in Digital Orthodontics from BOSS and couldn’t be more stoked! Huge shout out to Dr Vandana Katyal and the BOSS team for a wonderful year. I would recommend BOSS to every dentist no matter their level of experience with Orthodontics and clear aligners. Starting off with barely any orthodontic experience, I have commenced about 9 cases in the matter of months and BOSS gave me the confidence to predictably deliver results for my patients through clear aligners which are the future of modern orthodontics.
    Dr Sarang Sathe, Dentist NSW

  • I chose Boss’s clear aligner diploma because I wanted to know the latest evidence based practice to enhance my treatment planning and case execution. I now have a much better understanding of how to diagnose, what movements can be done and what will get me into trouble. The flexible nature of the course delivery also fit perfectly into full time work and my otherwise packed schedule. The monthly case presentation webinars are also great to not only get feedback from Dr Katyal, but also to validate your own thoughts self-assess and see how you are tracking with your learning.

    Dr Gregory Nguyễn, Dentist NSW

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