Kevin O’Brien (dentist)

Qualified dentist Kevin O’Brien was born in Edinburgh and is now based in Manchester Dental School and Royal Manchester Children's Hospital where he is Professor of Orthodontics and an active clinician.

He was the dean of the dental school from 2004-2007 and associate dean of the Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences from 2007-2010. He put in place the strategy that resulted in the School of Dentistry being rated number one in the UK for teaching and research in 2010.

He has previously worked with the GDC in the roles of chair of the specialist dental education board and a member of the strategic review of undergraduate training.

Kevin trained as a dentist in Manchester and qualified in 1979 and spent four years in general dental practice. He then followed a hospital career in the UK and USA. He was made consultant orthodontist in 1993 and professor of orthodontics in 1996.

His main research interests are clinical trials of orthodontic treatment methods that evaluate patient values. His clinical interests are the treatment of children with severe orthodontic and craniofacial problems.

Kevin was elected Chair of the GDC on 21 September 2011.