ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Geriatric Dentistry (Dip Geriatric Dentistry)
The ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Geriatric Dentistry (Dip Geriatric Dentistry) is an advanced qualification specifically designed for experienced dental professionals seeking to specialise in the care of older adults. This comprehensive programme equips learners with in-depth knowledge and practical skills in managing the unique oral health needs of the geriatric population, including complex restorative treatments, preventive care, and management of age-related conditions.
This diploma is tailored for practitioners who already possess a solid foundation in dentistry and wish to expand their expertise in geriatric care. Learners will explore advanced topics such as oral physiology in older adults, the impact of systemic conditions on oral health, preventive strategies, and patient-centred management approaches. By completing this qualification, learners enhance their professional profile, improve clinical competence, and strengthen their commitment to Continuing Professional Development (CPD), supporting career progression and recognition in specialised dental practice.
The ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Geriatric Dentistry is ideal for dental practitioners aiming to specialise in older adult care, improve treatment outcomes, and advance their careers in this growing field. Learners completing this programme will be well-prepared to provide high-quality, patient-centred care, manage complex cases, and contribute to multidisciplinary teams focused on enhancing oral health and quality of life for older adults.
Level 6 Diploma in Geriatric Dentistry (Dip Geriatric Dentistry)
To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Geriatric Dentistry (Dip Geriatric Dentistry), learner must meet the following entry requirements:
This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Geriatric Dentistry (Dip Geriatric Dentistry), consists of 6 mandatory units.
- Advanced Anatomy and Physiology Relevant to Geriatric Dentistry
- Oral Health Assessment and Age-Related Changes
- Preventive Strategies and Management of Common Geriatric Oral Conditions
- Complex Restorative and Prosthodontic Procedures for Older Adults
- Patient Communication and Care in Geriatric Dentistry
- Professional Practice, Ethics, and Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:
Advanced Anatomy and Physiology Relevant to Geriatric Dentistry
- Analyse detailed anatomy and physiology of the oral cavity and supporting structures in older adults.
- Apply anatomical and physiological knowledge to support diagnosis and treatment planning in geriatric dentistry.
- Integrate understanding of age-related physiological changes into clinical decision-making.
Oral Health Assessment and Age-Related Changes
- Conduct comprehensive oral health assessments for older patients.
- Identify and evaluate age-related changes and their impact on oral health.
- Apply assessment findings to develop personalised care plans for geriatric patients.
Preventive Strategies and Management of Common Geriatric Oral Conditions
- Develop and implement effective preventive care strategies for older adults.
- Manage common oral conditions in the geriatric population using evidence-based approaches.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of interventions to maintain or improve oral health outcomes.
Complex Restorative and Prosthodontic Procedures for Older Adults
- Plan and perform advanced restorative and prosthodontic treatments for geriatric patients.
- Apply appropriate techniques and materials to manage complex clinical cases.
- Assess treatment outcomes and adjust care plans to optimise patient satisfaction and oral function.
Patient Communication and Care in Geriatric Dentistry
- Develop effective communication strategies tailored to older adults.
- Provide patient-centred care, ensuring comfort, safety, and informed consent.
- Manage diverse patient needs while maintaining professional and ethical standards.
Professional Practice, Ethics, and Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
- Apply ethical, legal, and professional principles in geriatric dentistry practice.
- Demonstrate reflective practice, clinical decision-making, and leadership in patient care.
- Engage in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) to maintain and enhance professional competency in geriatric dentistry.
The ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Geriatric Dentistry (Dip Geriatric Dentistry) is designed for dental professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in the oral care of older adults. Completing this qualification equips learners with advanced clinical knowledge, specialist skills, and leadership abilities, providing opportunities for career growth, professional recognition, and contribution to the evolving field of geriatric dental care.
Career Advancement
- Progress to senior clinical roles within dental practices, hospitals, or specialised geriatric care units
- Lead clinical teams focusing on oral health management for elderly patients
- Oversee complex geriatric dental cases and multidisciplinary care plans
- Contribute to strategic decision-making in geriatric dentistry services
Specialist Opportunities
- Engage in advanced clinical practice in prosthodontics, restorative dentistry, and preventive oral care for older adults
- Develop specialised treatment protocols for age-related dental conditions
- Implement innovative approaches to oral rehabilitation and patient management
- Provide expert care in complex geriatric cases
Clinical Leadership and Education
- Assume leadership positions in dental clinics, hospitals, or community health programmes
- Mentor and train junior dental professionals and support staff
- Deliver Continuing Professional Development (CPD) sessions for colleagues
- Contribute to policy and protocol development in geriatric dentistry
Research and Innovation
- Participate in research initiatives focused on ageing, oral health, and dental care innovation
- Provide consultancy for community health projects or dental service development
- Develop and implement new clinical techniques and patient care protocols
- Drive improvements in preventive and restorative dental care for older populations
Professional Recognition and CPD
- Gain recognition for advanced expertise in geriatric dentistry
- Strengthen professional credibility and career prospects
- Support ongoing professional development through CPD engagement
- Remain competitive in specialised dental practice and leadership roles
This progression ensures learners develop advanced clinical skills, leadership capacity, and professional recognition, enabling them to make a meaningful impact on the oral healthcare of older adults and contribute to innovation in geriatric dentistry.
To successfully deliver the Level 6 Diploma in Geriatric Dentistry, centres must meet specific academic, administrative, and technical standards. These requirements ensure learners receive high-quality training, access to necessary resources, and an environment that supports both practical and theoretical learning.
1. Academic and Staffing Requirements
- The centre must have qualified teaching staff with expertise in dentistry, geriatric care, or related healthcare fields.
- Instructors should hold recognised professional qualifications and relevant experience in geriatric dentistry or dental practice.
- Centres must provide ongoing staff development, ensuring instructors stay up to date with advances in dental care, clinical procedures, and geriatric healthcare.
- Adequate staff-to-learner ratios must be maintained to provide effective supervision and support during practical sessions.
2. Facilities and Equipment
- Access to fully equipped dental clinics or laboratories suitable for delivering geriatric dentistry practical training.
- Availability of essential dental instruments, prosthodontic equipment, and infection control tools.
- Dedicated teaching spaces for theoretical lessons, workshops, and interactive sessions.
- Provision of patient care simulation equipment or clinical observation opportunities to enhance practical skills.
3. Learning Resources
- Availability of course materials, textbooks, and digital resources aligned with ICTQual AB Level 6 standards.
- Access to e-learning platforms for online learning, assessments, and interactive content (if blended learning is offered).
- Centres should provide case studies and clinical examples to bridge theory and practice in geriatric dental care.
4. Quality Assurance and Assessment
- Centres must have a robust quality assurance system to monitor teaching, assessment, and learner progress.
- Regular internal verification should be conducted to maintain assessment integrity and consistency.
- Secure facilities for storing assessment records and learner portfolios must be provided.
- Centres must comply with ICTQual AB policies and regulatory standards for course delivery and certification.
5. Health and Safety Requirements
- Centres must follow strict health and safety protocols, including infection control and clinical safety standards.
- Learners should have access to protective equipment, hygiene supplies, and first aid facilities.
- Risk assessments must be conducted for practical sessions involving clinical procedures or patient interaction.
By meeting these requirements, centres ensure that learners of the ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Geriatric Dentistry receive a high-quality educational experience that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills. Compliance with these standards also ensures that the course is delivered safely, professionally, and in line with ICTQual AB expectations, preparing learners effectively for advanced practice in geriatric dentistry.