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The Work of a Dental Technician
A Dental Technician constructs and repairs crowns, bridges and other dental appliances using prescriptions and impressions taken by a Dentist. They must have knowledge and understanding of the anatomy, physiology and pathology of the oral cavity and related tissues, and their biological response to Appliance materials and trauma.
Dental Technicians also require an understanding of the composition of the materials used in dental technology, and their physical-chemical and mechanical properties, so that they use them safely and to the benefit of the patient. The Dental Technician must have a high degree of manual dexterity and technical skill in all the basic disciplines of dental technology. The Dental Technician should develop planning and communication skills so that they can relate to the changing needs of the dental profession.
Once qualified and experienced, Dental Technicians may specialise in orthodontics, ceramics, prosthodontics or maxillo-facial work. Dental Technicians who specialise in maxillo-facial, generally work in hospitals under the supervision of Oral Surgeons. They may work independently of Dentistry, providing they do not carry out operations in the mouth, i.e. Impression or Fitting of Appliances.
Educational and Other Qualifications
The minimum entry requirements for the course are a grade C3 on two ordinary level papers in the Leaving Certificate and four other subjects at a minimum of grade D3 on ordinary level papers which must include English, mathematics and one of physics, chemistry, biology or agricultural science.
Attainments which the College and Hospital regard as equivalent to those above will be acceptable. Applicants may be selected by interview.
Note It must be emphasised that the above are the minimum requirements for the course.Because of competition for places, a higher standard may be necessary in practice to gain entry to the course.
How to become a Dental Technician
To become a qualified Dental Technician the applicant must take a full time 3 year Diploma Course in Dental Technology at Trinity College, Dublin. The course is designed to develop in each student a high level of understanding and technical skills in all the basic disciplines of dental technology; to have an understanding of modern materials science; to train in the technology of accurately casting dental alloys, the fabrication of porcelain restorations and the creation of high quality cosmetic artefacts.
The duration of the course is three years. For the first two years, students are based in the Dublin Dental Hospital and the course includes lectures and practicals in the basic sciences and in all aspects of laboratory techniques and technology. The third year will be based in a public or commercial dental laboratory in order to acquire knowledge of laboratory management. The course structure consists of a series of subjects.
Year 1
Dental Technology Practice/Theory
Foundation
Mathematics
Physics
Chemistry
Oral Masticatory System
Year 2
Dental Technology Practice/Theory
Business Study
Material Science
Computer Studies
Year 3
Dental Laboratory Production Orientation
Technical Project
Dental and Oral Pathological Process and Medical and Dental Emergencies
Employment and Promotional Prospects
Employment Opportunities exist in a Dental Department attached to a Hospital or a Health Board or a commercial Dental Laboratory. Self employment is an excellent option for Dental Technicians.
Where to go for Further Information
School of Dental Science
Dublin Dental Hospital,
Lincoln Place,
Dublin 2.
The above information is provided by FAS National Occupation & Career Guidance Service |
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