A qualitative investigation of specialist orthodontists in New Zealand: part 2. Orthodontists' working lives and work-life balance.

Background: Orthodontics is the most widely practised form of specialist dentistry in New Zealand. To date, no known qualitative research has been published examining the work-life balance of practitioners. The aim of this study was to investigate the working lives and work-life balance of NZ orthodontists in order to generate an understanding of the reality of orthodontic specialist practice and its effects on orthodontists' professional and personal lives.

A qualitative investigation of specialist orthodontists in New Zealand. Part 1. Orthodontists and orthodontic practice.

Background: Current knowledge of orthodontic practice is largely anecdotal and the lack of systematic knowledge can create barriers to better identifying the factors that make a successful orthodontist. The aim of this study was to investigate the routine practising lives of New Zealand orthodontists in order to generate an understanding of the reality of orthodontic specialist practice and its effects on their professional and personal lives.

Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted involving 19 practising orthodontists (four females, 15 males; mean age 50 years) throughout New Zealand.