BA, B.Dent.Sc TCD (Hons), MFDS RCSEd, MSc U.Birm (Research), M.Orth RCSEng

Dr O’Connell graduated from Trinity College Dublin Dental School in 2011 with an Honours degree, a B.A. and numerous awards including the Costello medal for dental research. She undertook further training at the world renowned Eastman Dental Institute and subsequently held positions at Guys Hospital and the Queen Elizabeth hospital. During this time she was awarded Membership of the Faculty of Dental Surgery.

She went on to secure a coveted position on a specialist orthodontic training programme in the U.K. ranking 2nd nationally during the recruitment process. She completed her specialist orthodontic training, working with leading consultants in the field and was awarded a Masters in Orthodontic Research and Membership in Orthodontics from the prestigious Royal College of Surgeons England, allowing her to register as a Specialist Orthodontist.

She has a special interest in clear aligner treatment (Invisalign) and was recently awarded Diamond Provider status from Invisalign, the highest level achievable and one of the few specialists in Ireland to hold this status. She is also passionate about early intervention in children to avoid the need for complex orthodontic treatment. She treats children, teens and adults at the Institute of Specialist & Cosmetic Dentistry.

Orthodontics is a specialised branch of dentistry focusing on the development of the face, teeth and jaws to reach close to ideal function aesthetics.

In adults, treatment is more guided by patient factors to create a plan that creates improved function and beautiful smiles in a time, budget and treatment designed around each patient. These options can include fixed metal braces or ceramic braces, Invisible braces, lingual braces or more Invisalign.

An orthodontist is a qualified specialist who undertakes a further 3 years of study on a postgraduate course at Masters or Doctorate level. Orthodontic training posts are highly competitive and before a dentist can begin their training pathway, they need to gain expansive work experience in a range of dental areas, including – maxillofacial surgery, restorative dentistry and paediatric dentistry.

What can I expect during a visit with my Specialist Orthodontist?

As part of the planning process for considering orthodontic treatment, it is important to meet Dr. Susan, and her nursing team, to go through an assessment and advise on options. Patients can be self-referred or referred from a dentist. An idea of research you may have done on types of braces and what preferences you may have, are all discussed in detail.

A detailed assessment including all records & measurements is required to determine the optimal course of treatment and time is spent advising on these options, the cost involved and the likely time commitment.

At your review appointment, Dr. O’Connell will provide a written report which includes the proposed plan, as well as highlighted alternative options. She will also provide you with your payment plan & options available around finance. She will review this with you before you commit to any treatment to ensure you are happy with every step. Once agreed, it’s time to start.