The association was formed in 1971 following a meeting between orthodontic technicians employed in London teaching hospitals.
Since then membership has grown steadily to the present level of approximately 240, representing all members of the industry. It is estimated that there are currently between 400 and 500 technicians earning their living from orthodontics in the UK.
The association is strictly a professional body devoted to the interests of orthodontics. It is not a trade union, but there would be no reason why the Association should not give opinions to institutions on the role of the orthodontic technician.
To encourage the study, improve the practice and advance the knowledge of orthodontic laboratory and clinical techniques for the benefit of the orthodontic team and patient.
To act as an advisory body to institutions and individuals on the use of all orthodontic laboratory techniques and the service orthodontic technicians provide.
To widen, improve and develop the education and knowledge of those actively engaged in orthodontic technology through: the media, publications, lectures, exhibitions, conferences and any other appropriate means.
To keep a register of members and their qualifications.
To invite and collect subsciptions and donations to the funds of the Association by any lawful means.
To co-operate with other organisations with the view to the promotion of the objects of the Association.
Events:
The Association holds an annual technical conference at a suitable venue each year. This is well supported by both members and traders, and a good opportunity for members to get to know each other. Besides the social aspect of the conference it is probably the best way of keeping up with the latest techniques and innovations in orthodontic technology as the lead-time on publication of articles can be long. The annual general meeting of the Association is held during the conference.
In addition to our own conference the Association also takes part in the British Orthodontic Conference each year. Members are invited to put on table and poster demonstrations at these conferences. It is vital that we maintain a presence at this event in order to strengthen our links with our clinical colleagues.
Members of the Council sit on various boards and committees to represent the interests of orthodontic technicians. This is an important function due to the many changes taking place in dental technology at present. Areas under discussion at present include registration, orthodontic auxilliaries and clinical dental technicians. As a member you gain recognition of your skills as an Orthodontic Technician.
In addition you also gain representation on the following bodies: Central Council for Health Authority Dental Technology
College and University Education Advisory Boards
Consultant Orthodontists Group
Affiliation to
The British Orthodontic Society
The British Orthodontic Conference
Publications:
The Association produces a quarterly newsletter and members are encouraged to contribute letters and technical tips. The Newsletter reports on meetings attended by Council officers and keeps members up to date on changes in legislation affecting our profession. The Newsletter also provides technical support from the expertise of your fellow members.
Since 1997 Conference we have combined our Conference Programme with a Proceedings, which, as well as containing abstracts of the lectures given at the Conference, also contains technical articles so that it can be used as a reference source. Anyone can submit an article for consideration for publication in the Proceedings.
The Association also publishes The Register of Specialist Orthodontic Technicians. This register, available on request from the Hon. Registrar, shows both the qualifications held and the sectors in which each technician works. Entry to the register is free to those members who wish to be included and a charge of £5 is made for non-members. The register is open to all technicians regardless of whether they are members of the OTA. Copies may be obtained from the Honorary Registrar at a cost of £2.50 per copy.