We are privileged to have Kate Gristas a new member of our orthodontic team. She recently succeeded in becoming one of the first candidates in the UK to embark on a career in the highly competitive and sought after field of orthodontic therapy.
Good dental care is delivered by a team of dental professionals. Orthodontic therapy is a new branch of operative dentistry; and although it has existed as a discipline in the USA and Canada for many years, its existence in the UK has only become possible as a result of recent legislative change. Orthodontic therapists must gain higher qualifications and be trained in programmes accredited by the General Dental Council and the Royal Colleges of Surgeons. They then see patients in conjunction with, and under the prescription and supervision of orthodontists.
Before becoming an orthodontic therapist, Kate had an impressive background as a dental hygienist and dental therapist. She has herself lectured and tutored dental care professionals
Having an orthodontic therapist will have many benefits for the practice and our valued patients. The orthodontists can devote more time to diagnosis and treatment planning; patients will get more personal attention from the operator thus further enhancing the quality of clinical care we provide; it allows more focus on helping patients maintain excellent standards of oral hygiene; there will be more cover for emergencies; and it provides additional appointments and more flexibility for patients at peak times.
