Designing, producing and repairing custom dental care appliances
Overview
The dental technician (integrated) was approved for delivery on 26/03/2015. This Higher apprenticeship standard awards you with a level 5, qualification when completed. The usual duration of this apprenticeship is 36 months, but this does not include the End-Point Assessment Period.
What the course covers
This apprenticeship standard aims to develop the technical skills to design, manufacture, modify and repair custom-built dental appliances. Dental technicians combine scientific expertise with an artistic flair; they will manufacture precise custom-made appliances such as dentures and braces, so excellent attention to detail is essential.
Dental technicians typically work in a dental laboratory to produce appliances on a prescription from a dentist. The work can be broadly split into three main areas: crown and bridge, dentures and orthodontics; most laboratories typically specialise in one of these areas, but apprentices will be given the opportunity to gain experience across all disciplines.
Dental technicians are registered professionals, required to work within the standards and regulations of the General Dental Council Scope of Practice. You must comply with ethical standards and professional regulations at all times. You may be required to work collaboratively with other dental practice professionals, and occasionally with patients directly. It is essential to assess the quality of work before releasing to the dentist and patient, remembering to demonstrate a strong commitment to high-quality patient care.
Careers and jobs associated
- Dental laboratory technician
- dental laboratory assistant
If you would like to find out more about the dental technician (integrated) apprenticeship standard, skills, learnt, assessment methods and duties of the role, visit the Institute for Apprenticeships.
