NHS Orthodontic Therapist: Pay Bands, Salary, Progression & How to Become
An NHS Orthodontic Therapist is a registered dental professional who delivers orthodontic care within the UK's National Health Service (NHS). The NHS Orthodontic Therapist guide covers the responsibilities, qualifications, and career prospects of NHS Orthodontic Therapists, the differences between orthodontic therapists and orthodontists, and the career pathways available. NHS Orthodontic Therapists make orthodontic treatments accessible, especially for children and young people who need dental alignment interventions. Demand for orthodontic services shows the importance of NHS Orthodontic Therapists in addressing oral health needs and reducing treatment wait times.
What Is an NHS Orthodontic Therapist?
An NHS Orthodontic Therapist is a specialised dental professional who performs orthodontic treatments under the guidance of an orthodontist or dentist. NHS Orthodontic Therapists fit, adjust, and remove braces, take teeth impressions, create 3D mouth scans, and take X-rays. NHS Orthodontic Therapists provide orthodontic care to patients with dental malocclusions and alignment issues.
NHS Orthodontic Therapists work within a structured clinical environment, in specialist orthodontic practices or hospital orthodontic departments. NHS Orthodontic Therapists advise patients on maintaining oral health during treatment, supporting patients in caring for their braces. To practise, NHS Orthodontic Therapists must register with the General Dental Council (GDC) and hold a Diploma in Orthodontic Therapy, which confirms the qualification and commitment to high standards of dental care.
The NHS Orthodontic Therapist role makes orthodontic care accessible and efficient within the healthcare system. NHS Orthodontic Therapists work closely with a team of dental professionals, contributing to treatment planning and patient care strategies. NHS Orthodontic Therapists support both the technical aspects of orthodontics and patient experience through clear communication and support.
What Does an NHS Orthodontic Therapist Do?
An NHS Orthodontic Therapist performs core tasks in orthodontic care under the supervision of an orthodontist or dentist. NHS Orthodontic Therapists fit, adjust, and remove braces (including brackets and wires), clean and prepare tooth surfaces for treatment, and conduct basic orthodontic assessments. NHS Orthodontic Therapists take patient medical and social histories and screen patients for orthodontic needs. NHS Orthodontic Therapists advise patients on maintaining oral health during treatment and confirm that treatment protocols are followed. NHS Orthodontic Therapists support orthodontic treatment within the NHS, especially for children with conditions like malocclusion.
What Is the Difference Between an NHS Orthodontic Therapist and an Orthodontist?
An NHS Orthodontic Therapist and an orthodontist differ in training, qualifications, and scope of practice. An orthodontist is a dental specialist who completes a Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree followed by three years of specialist orthodontic training. Orthodontist training covers complex cases, including orthognathic surgery and craniofacial anomalies, and supports independent practice. An NHS Orthodontic Therapist is a dental care professional who must register with the General Dental Council as a dental nurse, hygienist, therapist, or technician before training. NHS Orthodontic Therapists complete a specialised diploma course lasting 11 to 13 months.
Clinical autonomy and treatment difficulty separate the two roles. Orthodontists diagnose orthodontic conditions and design full treatment plans on their own. Orthodontists oversee all aspects of patient care and hold full clinical responsibility for treatment outcomes. NHS Orthodontic Therapists work under the supervision of an orthodontist or dentist. NHS Orthodontic Therapists perform routine orthodontic procedures as delegated, such as taking impressions, creating 3D mouth scans, and fitting braces according to the orthodontist's treatment plan. The collaborative model lets orthodontists focus on complex cases while NHS Orthodontic Therapists deliver routine care.
What Are the Different Types of NHS Orthodontic Therapist?
NHS Orthodontic Therapists work in different settings, each with distinct experiences and patient care dynamics. The main types of NHS Orthodontic Therapist are Hospital Orthodontic Therapist, Community Orthodontic Therapist, General Practice Orthodontic Therapist, and Advanced Practice Orthodontic Therapist. The different types of NHS Orthodontic Therapist are listed below.
Hospital Orthodontic Therapist
A Hospital Orthodontic Therapist works within NHS hospital-based orthodontic services and delivers specialised care under the supervision of a specialist orthodontist. Hospital Orthodontic Therapists treat patients with complex dental or medical needs, such as those with cleft lip and palate, craniofacial conditions, or cases requiring orthognathic surgery or craniofacial anomaly treatment. Hospital Orthodontic Therapists fit, adjust, and remove orthodontic appliances, take dental impressions, and provide oral health advice. Hospital Orthodontic Therapists work alongside consultants, surgeons, and allied health professionals as part of a multidisciplinary team to deliver complete patient care.
Community Orthodontic Therapist
A Community Orthodontic Therapist provides orthodontic care within community dental services, focusing on accessibility for varied patient populations. Community Orthodontic Therapists work in non-hospital settings such as community health centres and local clinics, with regular working hours and a range of routine orthodontic cases. Community Orthodontic Therapists fit braces and take impressions in line with other orthodontic therapists, with a focus on reaching patients who face barriers to hospital-based care. Community Orthodontic Therapists collaborate with general dental practitioners to manage straightforward orthodontic cases and educate patients on oral hygiene, making specialised care more accessible across different regions.
General Practice Orthodontic Therapist
A General Practice Orthodontic Therapist works within NHS-contracted general dental practices, providing orthodontic care alongside general dentistry services. General Practice Orthodontic Therapists take intraoral and extraoral photographs, conduct digital scans, and obtain radiographs where they hold the necessary radiography qualifications. General Practice Orthodontic Therapists fit braces and adjust them under the supervision and prescription of a qualified orthodontist, and may work evenings or weekends based on practice needs.
General Practice Orthodontic Therapists make orthodontic care more accessible within local communities. General Practice Orthodontic Therapists collaborate with the wider dental team, including dental nurses and reception staff, to support a smooth patient experience. The general practice setting lets General Practice Orthodontic Therapists develop strong patient relationships over treatment courses lasting between 12 months and 2.5 years.
Advanced Practice Orthodontic Therapist
An Advanced Practice Orthodontic Therapist is an experienced professional who has progressed to a senior role. Advanced Practice Orthodontic Therapists take on additional responsibilities including staff supervision, education, research, and participation in clinical audits. Advanced Practice Orthodontic Therapist roles involve more autonomous practice and leadership within the orthodontic team.
How Much Does an NHS Orthodontic Therapist Earn?
NHS Orthodontic Therapist salaries follow the Agenda for Change pay scale, starting at Band 5. Band 5 entry-level positions offer an annual salary ranging from approximately £28,000 to £34,000 for a 37.5-hour workweek. NHS Orthodontic Therapists progress to Band 6 and Band 7 positions as they gain experience and take on additional responsibilities. Band 6 roles involve more advanced clinical duties and offer higher salaries. Band 7 positions, the most senior, provide salaries ranging from £56,276 to £63,176 per year, as exemplified by roles at specialist hospitals like Great Ormond Street Hospital.
Beyond base salaries, NHS Orthodontic Therapists may receive increased pay for working unsocial hours including evenings and weekends. NHS Orthodontic Therapists based in London and surrounding areas qualify for High Cost Area Supplements, which provide additional financial compensation to reflect the higher cost of living in the capital.
NHS Orthodontic Therapist Band 5 Salary
The NHS Orthodontic Therapist Band 5 salary is the entry-level pay band on the Agenda for Change pay scale. Band 5 is the starting position for newly qualified NHS Orthodontic Therapists who have completed training and obtained full registration with the General Dental Council (GDC). At Band 5, NHS Orthodontic Therapists take teeth impressions, create 3D mouth scans, take X-rays, and fit and adjust braces under the supervision of an orthodontist or dentist. The Band 5 salary provides a structured starting point for NHS Orthodontic Therapists entering the NHS workforce, reflecting the professional qualification required and the clinical responsibilities undertaken. Incremental progression within Band 5 is available as NHS Orthodontic Therapists gain experience and demonstrate competency in their roles.
NHS Orthodontic Therapist Band 6 Salary
NHS Orthodontic Therapists at Band 6 earn salaries reflecting advanced clinical responsibilities and experience. The Band 6 pay scale ranges from approximately £37,338 to £44,962 annually, based on the Agenda for Change (AfC) pay scale. Band 6 is reserved for NHS Orthodontic Therapists who manage more complex cases and may supervise junior staff, contributing to service development. With experience, the salary can progress to the top of the band at £50,056. Additional allowances such as high-cost area supplements or unsocial hours uplifts can further increase take-home pay by 5-20%, depending on location and shift patterns. The Band 6 pay scale supports career stability and recognises the role of experienced NHS Orthodontic Therapists in the NHS.
NHS Orthodontic Therapist Band 7 Salary
The NHS Orthodontic Therapist Band 7 salary represents advanced roles within the orthodontic field, with salaries ranging from £56,276 to £63,176 per annum. Band 7 roles are found in specialist hospital settings such as dental and maxillofacial departments. Band 7 NHS Orthodontic Therapists provide complex orthodontic treatments and work with patients who have rare or challenging medical conditions. Beyond clinical duties, Band 7 positions involve participating in quality assurance programmes and departmental meetings. The Band 7 salary reflects the advanced skills and additional responsibilities required at this band.
What Is the NHS Orthodontic Therapist Pay Scale for 2026/27?
The NHS Orthodontic Therapist pay scale for 2026/27 follows the Agenda for Change framework, covering Bands 5 to 7. Band 5 is the entry-level position for newly qualified NHS Orthodontic Therapists, offering a starting salary that reflects foundational skills and responsibilities. Band 6 covers more experienced NHS Orthodontic Therapists who take on additional clinical duties and may supervise junior staff. Band 7 is reserved for NHS Orthodontic Therapists with substantial experience and leadership roles, involving specialist clinical work and departmental management.
The Agenda for Change pay scale provides fair compensation for NHS Orthodontic Therapists across all NHS settings. The scale includes several incremental pay points within each band, allowing salary progression based on experience and performance. The pay scale provides transparency and consistency, paying NHS Orthodontic Therapists equitably for their work and contributions to patient care. Regular reviews of the pay scale accommodate cost of living adjustments and retention strategies, maintaining competitive salaries within the NHS framework.
How Is NHS Orthodontic Therapist Pay Determined by Agenda for Change?
NHS Orthodontic Therapist pay is determined through the Agenda for Change (AfC) framework, the standardised pay system used across the NHS for all staff except doctors and dentists. Under the AfC framework, NHS Orthodontic Therapists are banded according to role difficulty, responsibilities, and experience level, falling into Bands 5, 6, or 7. The band assignment depends on factors such as clinical competency, autonomy in decision-making, scope of practice, and the difficulty of cases managed. Pay progression within each band occurs through incremental pay points, awarded annually based on length of service. The Agenda for Change pathway provides a consistent method for salary increases over time.
The Agenda for Change framework provides standardised pay scales across all NHS trusts and organisations, meaning an NHS Orthodontic Therapist in one region receives the same base salary as a counterpart in a different region at the same band level. Some variations apply through additional allowances such as London weighting in the capital or uplifts for unsocial hours worked outside standard operating times. The Agenda for Change framework provides equity, transparency, and consistency in NHS remuneration while allowing progression and recognition of increased experience and responsibility within the healthcare system.
How Much Did NHS Orthodontic Therapist Pay Rise in 2026?
In 2026, NHS Orthodontic Therapists received a pay increase through the Agenda for Change pay deal. The agreement provided a 3.6% pay uplift across all bands, effective from April 1, 2026. The pay uplift addressed inflation and improved workforce retention amid ongoing dental shortages. A Band 5 entry-level NHS Orthodontic Therapist saw the annual salary rise from approximately £29,970 to £31,048. Band 6 salaries increased from £37,338 to £38,684, and Band 7 from £46,148 to £47,793. The 2026 pay adjustments were confirmed in late 2026 and implemented through payslips starting December 2026, with arrears covering the period from April.
How Does NHS Orthodontic Therapist Pay Progression Work?
NHS Orthodontic Therapist pay progression follows a structured system within the Agenda for Change (AfC) pay framework. NHS Orthodontic Therapists move through incremental pay points within each band. NHS Orthodontic Therapists start at Band 5 and progress annually through predetermined increments based on time served rather than performance assessments. NHS Orthodontic Therapist progression continues until they reach the top of the current band's pay scale.
Career advancement beyond incremental progression requires applying for higher-banded positions. To move from Band 5 to Band 6, NHS Orthodontic Therapists need additional experience, qualifications, and responsibilities. The transition to Band 6 involves gaining clinical experience, completing continuing professional development (CPD), and demonstrating competency. A formal application and selection process are required to transition to a higher band, which may include developing specialist skills, taking on supervisory duties, or moving into educational or research positions.
The NHS pay progression system rewards experience and continued service within the organisation. The NHS pay progression system provides a predictable and transparent salary trajectory for NHS Orthodontic Therapists, with each year of satisfactory employment resulting in advancement to the next incremental pay point within the band.
What Are NHS Orthodontic Therapist Incremental Pay Points?
NHS Orthodontic Therapist incremental pay points are structured salary steps within the NHS Agenda for Change pay bands. NHS Orthodontic Therapist pay points allow annual salary increases based on years of service and satisfactory performance. Each pay band contains several incremental steps, starting from a minimum salary point and progressing to a maximum point within the band.
A Band 5 NHS Orthodontic Therapist begins at the lowest pay point for that band and advances through the incremental steps each year until reaching the maximum salary point. NHS Orthodontic Therapist progression continues until promotion to a higher band such as Band 6, where the incremental process restarts. The incremental system delivers regular pay increases that reflect experience and tenure without requiring NHS Orthodontic Therapists to change roles.
How Do NHS Orthodontic Therapists Move From Band 5 to Band 6?
NHS Orthodontic Therapists move from Band 5 to Band 6 through a structured process that involves additional experience and competencies. The Band 5 to Band 6 transition requires NHS Orthodontic Therapists to spend 2-4 years at Band 5, demonstrating advanced clinical skills and leadership capabilities.
To move to Band 6, NHS Orthodontic Therapists apply for internal promotions that may include interviews or competency-based assessments. Completing additional training such as the Diploma in Orthodontic Therapy strengthens the qualification profile. Employers may require evidence of continuing professional development (CPD) and the ability to take on supervisory roles or participate in quality improvement initiatives.
How Much Do NHS Orthodontic Therapists Earn for Unsocial Hours?
NHS Orthodontic Therapists receive additional compensation for working unsocial hours through uplifts under the Agenda for Change payment system. The unsocial hours uplifts apply to work conducted during evenings, nights, weekends, and public holidays. The uplift rates are calculated as a percentage increase on the basic hourly rate. Evening work after 8 pm on weekdays attracts a lower uplift, while Saturdays receive around a 30% uplift. Sundays and public holidays can attract up to double time, reflecting the increased demand and inconvenience of those hours. The exact rates and conditions depend on the individual's employment contract and the terms outlined in Section 2 of the Agenda for Change handbook. NHS Orthodontic Therapist unsocial hours payments provide a meaningful supplement to the base salary for those willing to work flexible schedules.
How to Calculate NHS Orthodontic Therapist Take-Home Pay
NHS Orthodontic Therapist take-home pay is calculated through a series of steps that account for deductions. The steps for calculating NHS Orthodontic Therapist take-home pay are listed below — follow the steps below or use our nhs take-home pay calculator for an instant estimate.
Identify Your Gross Salary
NHS Orthodontic Therapists begin by determining the annual or monthly gross salary based on NHS pay band and pay point. A Band 5 NHS Orthodontic Therapist may earn around £32,000 annually, equating to approximately £2,667 monthly before deductions.
Calculate Income Tax
NHS Orthodontic Therapists apply UK income tax rates to the gross salary. For the 2026/27 tax year, the first £12,570 is tax-free, with a 20% tax rate on earnings between £12,571 and £50,270. NHS Orthodontic Therapists calculate annual tax and divide by 12 for monthly deductions. Taxable income of £19,430 at 20% results in £324 monthly tax.
Deduct National Insurance Contributions
National Insurance (NI) contributions are calculated at 8% on earnings between £12,570 and £50,270. NHS Orthodontic Therapists compute NI annually and divide by 12. NI on £19,430 results in £130 monthly.
Subtract Pension Contributions
NHS pension contributions range from 5% to 14.5% of pensionable pay. For a Band 5 NHS Orthodontic Therapist position, the contribution may be 9.8%, amounting to £262 monthly. NHS Orthodontic Therapists add any student loan repayments where applicable, such as 9% over £27,295 for Plan 2 loans.
Calculate Final Take-Home Pay
NHS Orthodontic Therapists subtract all deductions from gross pay to determine net income. With total deductions of £716 (including tax, NI, and pension), a gross pay of £2,667 results in a take-home pay of £1,951 monthly. NHS Orthodontic Therapists can use tools like the NHS Pay Calculator for precise figures, adjusting for any unsocial hours or location allowances.
What Deductions Come Off an NHS Orthodontic Therapist Payslip?
An NHS Orthodontic Therapist payslip includes standard deductions from gross salary. The NHS Orthodontic Therapist payslip deductions are listed below.
- Income Tax: calculated through the PAYE (Pay As You Earn) system, based on the individual's tax code and earnings bracket
- National Insurance Contributions: fund state benefits, including the NHS and the state pension
- NHS Pension Contributions: automatically deducted, calculated as a percentage of pensionable pay
- Student Loan Repayments: applicable where the NHS Orthodontic Therapist holds an outstanding student loan
- Voluntary Deductions: union membership fees or charitable giving schemes, depending on personal choices
NHS Orthodontic Therapist payslip deductions support compliance with UK employment tax and pension regulations.
How to Become an NHS Orthodontic Therapist
Becoming an NHS Orthodontic Therapist involves a structured process combining education, training, and professional registration. The NHS Orthodontic Therapist pathway is designed for individuals already working in the dental field and provides a route to specialise in orthodontic therapy. The steps to become an NHS Orthodontic Therapist are listed below.
Obtain a Foundation Role in Dentistry
Aspiring NHS Orthodontic Therapists begin by working as a dental nurse, dental hygienist, dental technician, or dental therapist. The foundational dental experience provides the background in dental care and patient interaction required for orthodontic therapy training.
Enroll in an Approved Orthodontic Therapy Program
Aspiring NHS Orthodontic Therapists apply to a recognised orthodontic therapy training programme. Orthodontic therapy programmes are part-time and last about a year, with some offering a Level 4 apprenticeship route. The training includes theoretical and practical components, building both knowledge and skills.
Complete Theoretical and Clinical Training
Aspiring NHS Orthodontic Therapists engage in classroom learning and supervised clinical practice. The training phase involves seminars, lectures, and hands-on training under the guidance of a specialist orthodontist. Successful completion of the theoretical and clinical training builds practical skills in orthodontic procedures.
Register with the General Dental Council (GDC)
After completing the training programme, aspiring NHS Orthodontic Therapists obtain full registration with the UK General Dental Council. GDC registration is mandatory for practising as an NHS Orthodontic Therapist, supporting adherence to professional standards.
Apply for NHS Orthodontic Therapist Positions
With qualifications and GDC registration, NHS Orthodontic Therapists apply for roles within NHS hospital orthodontic departments or NHS-contracted specialist orthodontic practices. Entry-level NHS Orthodontic Therapist positions are at Band 5 on the Agenda for Change pay scale, with opportunities for career advancement within the NHS.
What Qualifications Do You Need to Be an NHS Orthodontic Therapist?
To become an NHS Orthodontic Therapist, candidates need defined qualifications. Candidates must hold a qualification in dental nursing, dental hygiene, dental therapy, or dental technology. Candidates must then complete a recognised Diploma in Orthodontic Therapy. The Diploma in Orthodontic Therapy provides the specialised skills required for the role and supports registration with the General Dental Council (GDC), allowing the candidate to practise as an NHS Orthodontic Therapist within the NHS.
How Long Does It Take to Qualify as an NHS Orthodontic Therapist?
Qualifying as an NHS Orthodontic Therapist requires about 12 to 13 months. The NHS Orthodontic Therapist qualification timeframe includes a full-time orthodontic therapy training programme spanning approximately 45 weeks. Candidates must meet all academic, clinical, and registration requirements to achieve qualification.
What Is GDC Registration for NHS Orthodontic Therapists?
GDC registration for NHS Orthodontic Therapists is the legal requirement to practise in the UK. To obtain GDC registration, NHS Orthodontic Therapists must complete an approved Diploma in Orthodontic Therapy, such as those offered by the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh. GDC registration allows NHS Orthodontic Therapists to work under the supervision of a specialist orthodontist, supporting professional standards and patient safety.
Where Do NHS Orthodontic Therapists Work?
NHS Orthodontic Therapists work across different healthcare settings within the NHS system. NHS Orthodontic Therapists work mainly in NHS hospital orthodontic departments, supporting specialist teams in delivering complex orthodontic treatments. NHS Orthodontic Therapists work in NHS-contracted specialist orthodontic practices that provide services to patients referred through NHS pathways. NHS Orthodontic Therapists work in community dental services and general dental practices offering NHS orthodontic treatment. Per General Dental Council regulations, NHS Orthodontic Therapists must work under the supervision of a specialist orthodontist, which shapes where and how they practise.
NHS Hospital Orthodontic Departments
NHS Hospital Orthodontic Departments are specialised units within NHS hospitals that provide orthodontic treatment and training. NHS Hospital Orthodontic Departments employ NHS Orthodontic Therapists who work under the supervision of specialist orthodontists to deliver clinical care. NHS Hospital Orthodontic Departments serve as training hubs where NHS Orthodontic Therapists develop the competencies required for their roles. NHS Hospital Orthodontic Departments handle complex cases involving children and patients with rare conditions. NHS Hospital Orthodontic Departments support the NHS orthodontic infrastructure by offering treatment to patients with medical needs for orthodontic care, including those eligible for free NHS orthodontic treatment.
NHS-Contracted Specialist Orthodontic Practices
NHS-contracted specialist orthodontic practices are private or independent dental facilities that have agreements with the NHS to deliver orthodontic services to NHS patients. NHS-contracted specialist orthodontic practices deliver specialist orthodontic care within the NHS framework, providing treatment in line with NHS guidelines and funding agreements. NHS Orthodontic Therapists in NHS-contracted practices work under the supervision of specialist orthodontists, fitting, adjusting, and removing braces, and offer full oral health advice to patients undergoing orthodontic treatment. NHS-contracted specialist orthodontic practices help manage patient demand and reduce waiting times in the NHS system, bridging hospital-based NHS care and private practice models.
What Band Is an NHS Orthodontic Therapist?
An NHS Orthodontic Therapist begins their career at Band 5 on the Agenda for Change pay scale. Band 5 is the entry-level band where NHS Orthodontic Therapists perform routine orthodontic procedures under supervision. With experience and additional responsibilities such as greater autonomy in treatment planning, an NHS Orthodontic Therapist progresses to Band 6. Advanced NHS Orthodontic Therapist roles, including leading teams or handling complex cases, can elevate the role to Band 7. The NHS Orthodontic Therapist banding structure aligns with other Dental Care Professionals, with pay reflecting the competencies and responsibilities outlined in NHS job descriptions.
How Does NHS Orthodontic Therapist Pay Compare to NHS Dental Therapist Pay?
NHS Orthodontic Therapists and NHS Dental Therapists start their careers at Band 5 on the Agenda for Change pay scale. Both professions work within the dental team and follow the same NHS pay structure, with comparable base salaries at equivalent band levels. Career progression opportunities and the demands of each role differ. NHS Orthodontic Therapists specialise in orthodontic treatments, while NHS Dental Therapists perform a broader range of general dental procedures. Actual earnings vary based on experience, additional responsibilities, and any uplift payments for unsocial hours.
How Does NHS Orthodontic Therapist Pay Compare to Private Orthodontic Therapist Pay?
NHS Orthodontic Therapists earn structured salaries based on the Agenda for Change pay bands. Band 5 positions start around £28,000 to £35,000 annually, while experienced Band 7 roles can reach £56,000 to £63,000 per year. Private orthodontic therapists work on hourly rates, with evidence showing rates between £30 to £35 per hour. Private orthodontic therapy can lead to higher annual earnings depending on hours worked. Private sector positions offer more flexible earning potential and the ability to negotiate rates based on experience. Private positions lack the full benefits package of NHS employment, which includes pension contributions, standardised holiday entitlements, and structured pay progression. The choice between NHS and private practice depends on individual preferences for job security, benefits, and earning structure versus higher immediate income and schedule flexibility.
Do NHS Orthodontic Therapists Get London Weighting?
Yes, NHS Orthodontic Therapists working in London receive London weighting on top of the banded salary.
Can NHS Orthodontic Therapists Become Orthodontists?
No, NHS Orthodontic Therapists cannot become orthodontists directly. Orthodontists must complete a full dental degree followed by specialist postgraduate training in orthodontics.
Is NHS Orthodontic Therapy a Shortage Profession?
Yes, NHS orthodontic therapy is a shortage profession. Only 76% of the orthodontic activity required to meet annual demand is commissioned by NHS Wales, leaving many areas underserved and resulting in long waiting lists for treatment.