The LICQual Level 6 Diploma in Orthodontics (Dip Orthodontics) is a highly specialised qualification designed for dental professionals seeking to advance their expertise in orthodontics. This qualification is not intended for fresh candidates; instead, it is tailored for practitioners who aim to enhance their career prospects, deepen their professional knowledge, and achieve significant Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
Learners undertaking this diploma will gain advanced insights into orthodontic principles, diagnostic procedures, treatment planning, and the latest techniques in patient care. The programme emphasises both theoretical understanding and practical application, enabling learners to confidently apply their knowledge in clinical practice.
Centres delivering the LICQual Level 6 Diploma in Orthodontics are required to maintain high standards of teaching excellence. This includes employing competent and qualified staff, providing all necessary materials and resources, and fostering a learning environment that promotes success. Such a framework ensures that learners receive the support and guidance needed to excel, achieving outcomes that align with international professional standards.
By completing this diploma, learners can significantly enhance their professional profile, demonstrate specialised orthodontic expertise, and strengthen their role within the dental industry. Whether aiming for career progression, advanced clinical practice, or the enhancement of CPD portfolios, this qualification provides a structured and rigorous pathway for committed dental professionals.
Course Overview
Qualification Title
LICQual Level 6 Diploma in Orthodontics (Dip Orthodontics)
Total Units
6
Total Credits
120
GLH
480
Qualification #
LICQ2200671
Qualification Specification
To enroll in the LICQual Level 6 Diploma in Orthodontics (Dip Orthodontics), applicants must meet the following criteria:
|
Qualification# |
Unit Title |
Credits |
GLH |
|---|---|---|---|
|
LICQ2200671-1 |
Advanced Orthodontic Principles |
20 |
80 |
|
LICQ2200671-2 |
Clinical Assessment and Diagnosis |
20 |
80 |
|
LICQ2200671-3 |
Orthodontic Treatment Techniques |
20 |
80 |
|
LICQ2200671-4 |
Patient Management and Professional Ethics |
20 |
80 |
|
LICQ2200671-5 |
Research Methods in Orthodontics |
20 |
80 |
|
LICQ2200671-6 |
Advanced Clinical Practice and Case Management |
20 |
80 |
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
Unit 1: Advanced Orthodontic Principles
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Demonstrate an advanced understanding of craniofacial growth and dental development.
- Identify and classify different types of malocclusion.
- Analyse occlusal relationships and their impact on treatment planning.
- Apply advanced orthodontic principles to formulate preliminary treatment strategies.
Unit 2: Clinical Assessment and Diagnosis
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Conduct comprehensive patient assessments, including clinical examinations and diagnostic records.
- Interpret radiographs and cephalometric analyses to inform treatment decisions.
- Develop accurate and evidence-based orthodontic treatment plans.
- Recognise and manage complex diagnostic cases.
Unit 3: Orthodontic Treatment Techniques
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of fixed and removable appliance systems, including aligners.
- Apply advanced clinical techniques in orthodontic treatment.
- Evaluate treatment options based on patient-specific needs and clinical evidence.
- Adapt treatment approaches to manage complications effectively.
Unit 4: Patient Management and Professional Ethics
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Communicate effectively with patients and caregivers regarding treatment options and outcomes.
- Obtain valid informed consent and maintain patient confidentiality.
- Apply ethical principles and professional standards in orthodontic practice.
- Manage patients with special needs or complex clinical requirements.
Unit 5: Research Methods in Orthodontics
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Critically appraise orthodontic research and scientific literature.
- Apply evidence-based principles to clinical practice.
- Design and conduct clinical audits or small-scale research projects.
- Integrate research findings into decision-making and treatment evaluation.
Unit 6: Advanced Clinical Practice and Case Management
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Plan and implement treatment for complex orthodontic cases under supervision.
- Evaluate treatment outcomes and adjust strategies as necessary.
- Reflect critically on clinical practice to enhance professional development.
- Demonstrate competency in advanced case management, ensuring patient safety and satisfaction.
This course is ideal for dental professionals seeking advanced knowledge and expertise in orthodontics. It is suitable for learners who:
- Are qualified dentists with relevant clinical experience in general dentistry.
- Wish to specialise in orthodontics or enhance their existing orthodontic skills.
- Aim to advance their career prospects and professional standing within the dental industry.
- Want to strengthen their Continuing Professional Development (CPD) portfolio with a recognised Level 6 qualification.
- Seek to develop advanced clinical competencies in patient assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning.
- Are committed to evidence-based practice and applying research findings to clinical orthodontic care.
- Desire to work in a professional environment that meets international orthodontic standards.
This course is not suitable for beginners or those without prior dental qualifications and clinical experience. It is specifically designed for learners who are motivated to achieve high-level professional growth and clinical excellence in orthodontics.
To ensure high-quality delivery and learner success, centres offering the LICQual Level 6 Diploma in Orthodontics must meet the following requirements:
- Qualified and Competent Staff: Centres must employ experienced dental professionals with recognised orthodontic qualifications and teaching experience to deliver both theoretical and practical components.
- Clinical Facilities: Learners must have access to a fully equipped dental clinic or practice with appropriate orthodontic instruments, materials, and treatment technologies.
- Learning Resources: Centres should provide comprehensive learning resources, including textbooks, digital materials, case studies, and access to current research in orthodontics.
- Assessment and Quality Assurance: Centres must implement robust assessment procedures, quality assurance systems, and regular monitoring to ensure academic standards are maintained.
- Health and Safety Compliance: All clinical environments must adhere to UK health and safety regulations, infection control standards, and professional clinical guidelines.
- Supportive Learning Environment: Centres should offer guidance, supervision, and mentoring to ensure learners achieve the intended learning outcomes.
- CPD and Professional Development Support: Centres should encourage continuous professional development for both staff and learners to maintain high standards in orthodontic education.
By meeting these requirements, centres can deliver a high-quality, internationally recognised orthodontics qualification, ensuring learners gain the advanced skills, knowledge, and professional competencies needed for successful career progression.
Assessment and Verification
All units within this qualification are subject to internal assessment by the approved centre and external verification by LICQual. The qualification follows a criterion-referenced assessment approach, ensuring that learners meet all specified learning outcomes.
To achieve a ‘Pass’ in any unit, learners must provide valid, sufficient, and authentic evidence demonstrating their attainment of all learning outcomes and compliance with the prescribed assessment criteria. The Assessor is responsible for evaluating the evidence and determining whether the learner has successfully met the required standards.
Assessors must maintain a clear and comprehensive audit trail, documenting the basis for their assessment decisions to ensure transparency, consistency, and compliance with quality assurance requirements.
