A dental technician is a person who makes special items for people's mouths, like crowns, bridges, dentures, and braces. They work mostly in laboratories using different tools and materials to create these items that help people chew, talk, and smile confidently. Dental technicians work closely with dentists and orthodontists, following their instructions to make sure everything fits perfectly and looks natural. This job is great for people who like working with their hands and being creative, as well as helping others feel better about their teeth.
Dental technicians in the UK usually earn between £22,000 and £40,000 per year, depending on experience.
There are around 7,000 dental technicians working in the UK.
Most dental technicians work 37 to 40 hours per week, usually during weekdays.
Works with dentists to make braces and other devices that help straighten teeth.
Makes special tooth crowns and bridges to replace or support broken teeth.
Creates false teeth, called dentures, to help people who have lost their teeth.
Find out how teeth work and why it is important to keep them clean and healthy.
You can read books or watch videos about teeth, gums, and how to brush properly. Ask your dentist questions during your next visit, and see if you can visit a local dental lab on a school trip.
Learn about the job of a dental technician and the different things they make for people's mouths.
Dental technicians design and make crowns, bridges, and dentures using special tools and machines. You can find information on NHS websites or speak to your school careers advisor for more details.
Focus on science subjects like biology and chemistry, as they are very helpful for this career.
Doing well in GCSEs, especially in science, maths, and English, is important. This will help you get onto a college course later on.
After school, apply for a dental technology course at college or university, or look for an apprenticeship.
You can take a BTEC, Level 3 Diploma, or a degree in dental technology. Some people choose a dental technician apprenticeship, where you learn on the job while studying.
Use your skills to make crowns, bridges, and dentures under supervision during your training.
In your course or apprenticeship, you will spend time in a lab practising how to make dental appliances. You will also learn how to use special equipment and materials safely.
Apply for jobs in dental laboratories or hospitals to start your career as a dental technician.
You can look for jobs in the NHS, private dental labs, or even set up your own business later on. Keep learning new skills and stay up to date with new dental technology.
A dental nurse helps dentists during treatments, looks after patients, and keeps the dental surgery clean and ready.
A dental hygienist cleans people's teeth, gives advice on how to keep teeth healthy, and helps to prevent tooth problems.
An orthodontic technician makes braces and other devices to help straighten teeth, working closely with orthodontists.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Dental Technician. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
The career most closely matching 'Dental technician' is 'Pharmacy technician' because both involve specialised technical skills within healthcare support roles, requiring proficiency in working with precise specifications, handling procedures, and assisting in the preparation of medical or health-related products. Both careers demand attention to detail, technical knowledge, and working under the guidance of healthcare professionals.
You can get into this job through:
You could do a foundation degree or degree in dental technology approved by the General Dental Council.
It's likely you'll need a degree to do advanced dental technology work.
You'll usually need:
You could do a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Dental Technology approved by the General Dental Council.
You'll usually need:
You may be able to apply to do a Dental Technician Level 5 Higher Apprenticeship.
This can take around 3 years to complete and combines on-the-job training and time spent with a learning provider.
You'll usually need:
You could start as a trainee dental technician with a practice and study part time.
This could take up to 5 years depending on which qualification you do.
you'll need to register with the General Dental Council
You can join the Dental Technologists Association (DTA) for professional development and training opportunities.
You can find out more about how to become a dental technician from Health Careers.
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