Dental technologist
What is dental technology?
It is a science that understands bio-compatible materials that can be utilised, adapted, and manufactured for constructing appliances for patients that replace lost tissues such as teeth or appliances that adapts anatomy.
Is dental technology the right career for me?
If you enjoy making things with your hands, have a good degree of manual dexterity, an eye for detail and enjoy the science of materials this could be right for you.
What do dental technologists do?
This profession is part of the dental team and provides dental clinicians with appliances that cover:
- Dentures
- orthodontic appliances
- crowns
- implants
- bridges
- specialist surgical appliances
- prosthesis for Maxillo-Facial departments.
The dental technologists receive impressions or data and fabricate appliances for the clinician. These items such as crowns or dentures must be functional as well ascetically pleasing to the patient.
Where do dental technologists work?
They can be employed in the commercial sector in private dental laboratories or employed in the NHS in specialist teaching hospitals or district hospitals.
How much do dental technologists earn?
Starting salary for dental technicians employed in the NHS is band 5; please see our Pay and Benefits section for more information.
What career progression opportunities are available for dental technologists?
Progression opportunities are possible dependant on experience and qualifications such as a Masters (MSc). Some DTs chose to undertake further training and become Clinical Dental Technicians (CDTs).
How do I become a dental technologist?
| Do I need a degree? | Yes, you will have to undertake the 3 years full time BSc (Hon) science of Dental Technology Degree and register with the General Dental Council. |
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| Where can I train in Wales? | Cardiff Metropolitan University. |
| Is there funding available? | For further information about student finance and tuition fees visit Cardiff Metropolitan University. |
| Are there postgraduate opportunities? | Yes, in order to specialise you ideally need an MSc in the Science of dental technology. |
| Do I need previous experience to apply for the course? | No, but can be an advantage. |
| How do I get experience? | There numerous Dental Laboratories in and outside of the NHS that may offer work experiences. |
| How do I apply for a job? | Visit our Work section for more information. |