The role of professionals complementary to dentistry in orthodontic practice as seen by United Kingdom orthodontists

Objective To determine the opinions of UK orthodontists regarding potential clinical tasks to be carried out by orthodontic professionals complementary to dentistry (PCDs). Design and setting Postal questionnaire survey of orthodontists within the UK. Subjects and methods A survey was developed including questions about respondents' current and previous posts, followed by seventeen potential tasks to be carried out by PCDs to prescription. Respondents stated whether a suitably trained PCD should perform each task to direct prescription. Respondents could mention additional clinical tasks that they considered appropriate. The questionnaire was posted to members of the British Orthodontic Society who were eligible to be included on the finalised specialist orthodontist register held by the General Dental Council. Results Five hundred and eighty one (70.6%) of 821 questionnaires were returned. Most procedures were supported but there was less support for four procedures, a majority against the fitting of bonded lingual retainers and respondents were undecided about molar band cementation, direct bonding of brackets and fitting of headgear. Amount or type of clinical practice or the date of qualification did not alter the pattern of responses given. Conclusions There is support for the introduction of a class of orthodontic PCD and agreement regarding the nature of clinical tasks.