Course summary

In December 2024, the University of Bolton was granted permission by the Office for Students (OfS) to change its name to the University of Greater Manchester with immediate effect. While we work to update our systems, you may see both names used in the information we provide. This MSc is designed to equip graduates with essential theoretical knowledge and practical clinical skills for modern orthodontic practice. Emphasising both traditional fixed with digital orthodontics and advanced technologies like 3D imaging, the curriculum enhances skills in diagnosis and treatment planning, addressing both aesthetic and functional aspects of patient care. Hands-on clinical training bridges theoretical concepts with real-world application. The MSc in Dentofacial Orthodontics and Clear Aligners is a pioneering programme designed to elevate orthodontic competencies by equipping graduates with specialised knowledge and skills in both fixed orthodontic and clear aligner therapy. One of the core components of this program is the comprehensive exploration of advanced biomechanics, which is crucial for understanding the forces applied during aligner therapy. Dentists will delve into cephalometric and soft tissue analysis, allowing them to evaluate each patient's unique dental and facial structure meticulously. By understanding these complex interrelationships, practitioners can design treatment plans that not only address alignment issues but also consider the overall function and occlusion of the patient's bite, thereby optimizing long-term results. The MSc programme also places emphasis on the practical application of aligners. Participants will gain an in-depth understanding of how to utilise clear aligners as an effective tool for enhancing both aesthetic outcomes and functional improvements. With clear aligners becoming increasingly popular among patients seeking discreet orthodontic solutions, dentists trained in this area will be better positioned to meet patient demands while expanding their practice services. An essential aspect of the curriculum is the introduction to the Smile Architect software, a cutting-edge platform that facilitates the meticulous planning of multidisciplinary cases. Through this software, dentists will learn to coordinate complex treatments effectively, involving various dental specialties and ensuring comprehensive care delivery. The programme has been carefully planned to ensure that modules provide a scaffolded approach to learning, with earlier modules underpinning later ones and the contents of one module complementing another taught in the academic year. For example, after having spent 90 hours in the 1st semester doing practical work in the Dental Manikins’ Dental Skills Laboratory simulating the clinical environment, you will enter the clinical training environment and begin working with patients. Apart from the well-established, in academia, written assessments (exams, reports, etc.), this Programme includes other more contemporary types of assessment, that are also being used by other organisations, like the Royal College of Surgeons and the General Dental Council (GDC). The broad range of assessment types in the Programme aims at consolidating your learning. Some such assessments’ type examples include Observed Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs), professional discussions, etc.