The degree can be at the Master’s (MSc, MClinDent, MPhil) or Doctorate (DDS) level. The training programme is also open to those who may, from the outset or subsequently, want to train flexibly or job share: in this instance, Deanery approval must be given prior to interview and is dependent on the availability of such a training post. Training takes place within hospital departments linked to recognised university dental schools and is assessed through the Annual Review of Competence Progression (ARCP) over the three years. Upon successful completion of the programme, the StR is eligible to sit the Membership in Orthodontics (MOrth) examination of the Royal College of Surgeons (RCS). Although some universities offer a 2-year M-level programme, it does not give eligibility to sit the MOrth examination. The MOrth and Certificate of Completion of Specialist Training (CCST) allow for orthodontic specialist registration with the General Dental Council (GDC).
For non-EU trainees who are successful in the MOrth examination, there is no automatic entitlement to specialist recognition. For registration to take place, non-EU trainees will have to apply for entry to the GDC orthodontic specialist list through equivalence demonstrating that the training undertaken is very similar to UK/EU trainees. There is no guarantee of acceptance onto the specialist list via this route.