Basic Theoretical Course

Orthodontics

(120)

Basic Theoretical Course

Published Date December 28, 2025

Covers the core principles of orthodontics, including growth and development, diagnosis, treatment planning, and appliance basics, providing a strong theoretical foundation for fellowship candidates.

What You Will Learn

The Basic Theoretical Course is where trainees begin building the essential academic foundation of orthodontics. This stage is designed to provide a structured and in-depth understanding of the theoretical concepts that underpin diagnosis, treatment planning, and the management of different orthodontic cases within the British Fellowship in Orthodontics (FOrth) pathway.

During this course, you will learn how to:

Understand the core principles of orthodontics and the scientific basis of modern orthodontic practice
Explore craniofacial growth and development and its relevance to orthodontic diagnosis and treatment
Recognise different types of malocclusion and understand how they are classified and analysed
Understand the biological and theoretical principles of tooth movement and supporting tissues under orthodontic force
Build a solid foundation in orthodontic diagnosis and systematic case assessment
Interpret orthodontic records, including clinical photographs, radiographs, and study models, in a structured way
Understand the key principles of cephalometric analysis and its role in treatment decision-making
Learn the fundamentals of treatment planning and how treatment options are selected for different cases
Become familiar with the basic principles of orthodontic appliances, materials, and instruments
Understand possible limitations, risks, and factors that influence treatment outcomes
Develop the academic language and clinical reasoning needed to engage confidently in advanced teaching and case discussions

This course is not only about theoretical knowledge. It is about building a coherent scientific framework that prepares trainees for deeper clinical understanding and supports a stronger start in the FOrth orthodontic training journey.

Course Objectives

The Basic Theoretical Course is designed to provide trainees with the academic foundation required to understand orthodontics properly. It delivers a structured theoretical framework that supports the core concepts needed for diagnosis, treatment planning, and the interpretation of different orthodontic cases within the FOrth pathway.

The main objectives of this course are to:

Build a strong scientific foundation in the fundamentals of orthodontics before deeper clinical and practical training
Help trainees understand the theoretical principles that govern orthodontic diagnosis and case analysis
Develop a clear understanding of the relationship between craniofacial growth and orthodontic problems
Establish core knowledge in malocclusion, orthodontic diagnosis, and treatment planning
Introduce the biological basis of tooth movement, tissue response, and the principles of orthodontic biomechanics
Train participants to understand and interpret different orthodontic records in a structured academic manner
Build a solid theoretical foundation in cephalometric analysis and its role in treatment decisions
Familiarise trainees with the essential concepts of orthodontic appliances and treatment materials
Prepare participants for more effective engagement in advanced lectures, case discussions, and later clinical training
Transform theoretical knowledge into a structured way of thinking that supports more accurate and professional clinical reasoning

This course forms the intellectual backbone of orthodontic training, giving trainees the clarity and scientific grounding they need to progress with confidence through the later stages of the British Fellowship in Orthodontics.