The Orthodontic National Group (ONG) has been celebrating the life and legacy of specialist practitioner and former President Chris Kettler, who died suddenly in November.

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Chris was a passionate advocate for orthodontic therapists and dental nurses and did what he could to see their contribution to patient care expanded and recognised.

In the early years of his career there were five different societies representing different aspects of the orthodontic specialty. Chris had three aims:

  • The unification of the five societies to form the British Orthodontic Society

  • The creation of a specialist list for orthodontists

  • The creation of the role of orthodontic therapist (OT).

All were achieved in his lifetime, in a significant part due to his energy and commitment. Among other roles, he served on the GDC Working Group for the OT Curriculum. From 2009-2011 he was President of ONG.

Fiona Grist, a former vice-chair of ONG, was a friend of Chris and attended his funeral. She said of him: 'He was a wonderful champion for orthodontic dental nurses and he encouraged the team approach by example, taking and encouraging his staff to attend British Orthodontic Conference and study days. He was keen to develop the role of the nurse both in the area of extended duties but also in the pathway leading to orthodontic therapy.

'When the BOS was exploring the possibilities of ONG becoming a group affiliated to the BOS Chris represented the Society and when a mutually amicable solution was reached it was down in no small part to his presence. His work ethic was huge and this was mirrored in his achievements.'

Chris was awarded an MBE in 2011 for service to the profession - the first specialist orthodontist practitioner to be recognised as such.