Learning Outcomes for the Level 6 International Diploma in Dental Technology 360 Credits – Three Years:
Year 1: Foundational Knowledge
By the end of Year 1, learners will be able to:
Introduction to Dental Technology
- Demonstrate an understanding of the dental technology profession, roles, and responsibilities.
- Explain basic dental laboratory procedures and workflows.
- Apply foundational knowledge to simple dental appliance fabrication tasks.
Human Anatomy and Oral Biology
- Describe the structure and function of the human oral cavity and surrounding tissues.
- Understand the biological principles relevant to dental treatment and appliance fabrication.
- Apply anatomical knowledge to laboratory procedures and clinical awareness.
Dental Materials Science
- Identify different dental materials and their properties.
- Understand the selection and application of materials in dental appliances.
- Apply knowledge of materials to practical laboratory tasks safely and accurately.
Fundamentals of Prosthodontics
- Explain the principles of prosthetic dental treatment.
- Demonstrate basic skills in constructing simple prostheses.
- Apply prosthodontic concepts to laboratory practice.
Basic Orthodontic Appliance Design
- Understand the principles of orthodontic appliances and their clinical use.
- Construct basic removable orthodontic devices in the laboratory.
- Evaluate design and function of simple orthodontic appliances.
Principles of Dental Laboratory Work
- Apply standard laboratory procedures and protocols.
- Demonstrate safe handling of dental instruments and materials.
- Develop accuracy, attention to detail, and quality control in laboratory tasks.
Dental Anatomy and Occlusion
- Describe dental anatomy and occlusal relationships.
- Apply anatomical knowledge to prosthetic and orthodontic appliance design.
- Assess and correct occlusal and anatomical errors in laboratory work.
Infection Control and Safety in Dental Laboratories
- Understand infection control principles and hygiene standards.
- Implement safe laboratory practices to protect staff and clients.
- Apply legal and professional standards for workplace safety.
Introduction to CAD/CAM Technology
- Demonstrate understanding of digital dental technologies.
- Apply basic CAD/CAM techniques to dental appliance design.
- Evaluate the advantages and limitations of digital workflows.
Communication Skills in Clinical and Laboratory Settings
- Develop effective verbal and written communication with dental professionals.
- Record and report information accurately in laboratory documentation.
- Apply interpersonal skills for collaboration with clinical teams.
Research Methods in Dental Science
- Understand basic research principles and methodology in dentistry.
- Collect, analyse, and interpret dental data accurately.
- Apply research findings to support laboratory and clinical decisions.
Professional Ethics and Standards in Dentistry
- Understand ethical frameworks and professional responsibilities in dental technology.
- Apply ethical decision-making in laboratory and clinical contexts.
- Demonstrate professional conduct aligned with industry standards.
Year 2: Intermediate Proficiency
By the end of Year 2, learners will be able to:
Advanced Prosthodontic Techniques
- Apply intermediate prosthodontic methods in appliance fabrication.
- Assess prosthetic design for functionality and aesthetics.
- Implement clinical feedback to refine prosthodontic work.
Crown and Bridge Fabrication
- Construct crowns and bridges using standard laboratory procedures.
- Ensure accuracy in fit, occlusion, and material selection.
- Evaluate laboratory processes for quality and efficiency.
Removable Partial Dentures
- Design and fabricate removable partial dentures.
- Assess patient-specific requirements and adapt designs.
- Apply finishing and adjustment techniques to ensure comfort and function.
Complete Denture Construction
- Construct complete dentures using established protocols.
- Apply anatomical and occlusal knowledge to optimise fit.
- Evaluate denture quality against clinical and laboratory standards.
Orthodontic Appliance Fabrication
- Produce functional removable and fixed orthodontic appliances.
- Interpret clinical instructions to guide laboratory work.
- Assess design and effectiveness of appliances for patient outcomes.
Dental Ceramics and Restorative Materials
- Work with ceramics and other restorative materials to produce aesthetic appliances.
- Apply correct processing, layering, and finishing techniques.
- Evaluate the durability and suitability of restorative products.
Digital Dentistry and CAD/CAM Applications
- Apply digital scanning and CAD/CAM design in appliance fabrication.
- Integrate digital workflows with traditional laboratory techniques.
- Analyse digital outputs for accuracy and quality control.
Quality Control and Laboratory Management
- Implement quality assurance processes in dental laboratory operations.
- Monitor workflow efficiency and compliance with industry standards.
- Apply problem-solving strategies to maintain high-quality outputs.
Advanced Dental Anatomy and Morphology
- Analyse complex dental structures for appliance design.
- Apply detailed anatomical knowledge to prosthodontic and orthodontic cases.
- Identify and correct morphological errors in laboratory work.
Patient Care and Clinical Support
- Understand patient needs and clinical requirements for dental appliances.
- Apply laboratory outcomes to improve patient comfort and satisfaction.
- Collaborate effectively with dental teams to support patient care.
Evidence-Based Practice in Dental Technology
- Interpret research and clinical data to guide laboratory procedures.
- Apply best practices to improve appliance quality and clinical outcomes.
- Evaluate new techniques and materials using evidence-based approaches.
Professional Development and CPD Planning
- Identify opportunities for continuing professional development.
- Reflect on personal skills and career goals in dental technology.
- Implement a structured CPD plan for long-term professional growth.
Year 3: Advanced Specialization and Application
By the end of Year 3, learners will be able to:
Complex Prosthodontic Cases
- Apply advanced prosthodontic techniques to complex cases.
- Assess and adapt appliance design for challenging clinical requirements.
- Evaluate functional and aesthetic outcomes to ensure patient satisfaction.
Implant-Supported Prostheses
- Design and fabricate implant-supported dental prostheses.
- Apply precise measurement and material selection for implant cases.
- Integrate laboratory and clinical knowledge to ensure success.
Advanced Orthodontic Appliance Design
- Produce complex fixed and removable orthodontic appliances.
- Apply detailed anatomical and functional considerations.
- Evaluate appliance performance and clinical effectiveness.
Cosmetic and Aesthetic Dentistry Applications
- Design dental appliances with a focus on aesthetics and patient preference.
- Apply advanced materials and techniques to enhance appearance.
- Assess and refine work for optimal cosmetic outcomes.
Advanced Digital Dentistry Techniques
- Utilise CAD/CAM and 3D printing technologies for complex cases.
- Integrate digital workflows with traditional laboratory procedures.
- Evaluate accuracy, efficiency, and quality of digital outputs.
Dental Laboratory Leadership and Management
- Lead and manage laboratory teams effectively.
- Implement workflow organisation, quality control, and resource management.
- Apply leadership skills to improve laboratory performance and outcomes.
Advanced Restorative Material Applications
- Apply specialised materials for high-quality restorations.
- Evaluate material properties and suitability for clinical requirements.
- Implement finishing and adjustment techniques to meet professional standards.
Case Planning and Treatment Integration
- Develop comprehensive treatment plans in collaboration with clinicians.
- Integrate prosthodontic, orthodontic, and aesthetic considerations.
- Assess overall outcomes to ensure functional and aesthetic success.
Innovation and Technology in Dental Practice
- Apply emerging technologies and innovative techniques in dental laboratories.
- Evaluate technological advances for effectiveness and feasibility.
- Implement innovations to enhance productivity, quality, and patient outcomes.
Independent Project or Capstone in Dental Technology
- Plan and execute an independent research or practice-based project.
- Demonstrate mastery of laboratory techniques, materials, and clinical integration.
- Analyse results and present findings in a professional format.
Professional Ethics and Legal Considerations
- Apply ethical principles and legal requirements in dental technology practice.
- Manage challenging scenarios with professionalism and integrity.
- Ensure compliance with regulatory and professional standards.
Advanced CPD and Career Development Strategies
- Plan long-term professional development and career progression.
- Identify specialised areas for skill enhancement and CPD.
- Reflect on practice to maintain professional excellence and adaptability.