Learning Outcomes for the Level 5 International Diploma in Dental Technology 240 Credits – Two Years:

Year 1: Foundation in Dental Technology

Introduction to Dental Technology

• Understand the role and scope of dental technology in modern healthcare.
• Recognise different dental laboratory environments and functions.
• Identify key responsibilities and professional standards for dental technicians.
• Apply basic principles of dental technology to practical tasks.

Dental Anatomy and Oral Physiology

• Understand the structure and function of teeth and oral tissues.
• Analyse how anatomy impacts dental restoration and appliance design.
• Identify anatomical variations and their clinical significance.
• Apply anatomical knowledge in laboratory procedures and case planning.

Fundamentals of Prosthodontics

• Understand core principles of prosthodontic treatment and planning.
• Identify different types of dental prosthetics and their uses.
• Apply basic fabrication techniques for dentures and bridges.
• Evaluate prosthodontic requirements in patient care scenarios.

Dental Materials Science

• Understand the properties and applications of dental materials.
• Analyse the behaviour of metals, ceramics, and polymers in dentistry.
• Select appropriate materials for specific clinical or laboratory needs.
• Apply material handling techniques safely and accurately.

Orthodontic Appliances and Principles

• Understand the function and types of orthodontic appliances.
• Apply basic fabrication and adjustment techniques.
• Analyse treatment requirements for common orthodontic cases.
• Evaluate appliance effectiveness and durability.

Basic Dental Laboratory Techniques

• Demonstrate foundational skills in dental prosthetic fabrication.
• Apply safe and precise laboratory techniques.
• Understand workflow processes in a dental lab setting.
• Evaluate outcomes and maintain quality standards.

Infection Control and Safety in Dental Practice

• Understand infection control protocols in dental settings.
• Apply hygiene and sterilisation procedures in the laboratory.
• Evaluate risk and implement safety measures.
• Maintain compliance with professional health and safety standards.

Dental Radiography Basics

• Understand principles of dental imaging and radiographic techniques.
• Recognise normal and abnormal oral structures on radiographs.
• Apply knowledge of imaging in treatment planning and laboratory work.
• Ensure safety protocols are followed when handling radiography equipment.

Communication Skills in Dental Settings

• Develop effective verbal and non-verbal communication with clinicians and patients.
• Collaborate efficiently within multidisciplinary dental teams.
• Demonstrate professional etiquette in clinical and laboratory environments.
• Apply active listening and feedback techniques to enhance patient care.

Ethics, Professionalism, and Legal Frameworks

• Understand ethical responsibilities in dental technology practice.
• Apply professional standards and legal regulations.
• Recognise dilemmas and make informed decisions.
• Evaluate ethical considerations in clinical and laboratory scenarios.

Introduction to Digital Dentistry

• Understand the role of digital tools and CAD/CAM in dental technology.
• Apply basic digital design techniques to prosthetic fabrication.
• Analyse digital workflow integration into laboratory processes.
• Evaluate advantages and limitations of digital dentistry solutions.

Introduction to Research in Dental Technology

• Understand the principles of research in dental technology.
• Apply basic research methods to practical laboratory problems.
• Analyse data and interpret results for applied solutions.
• Evaluate research findings to improve laboratory practice.

Year 2: Advanced Dental Technology

Advanced Prosthodontics and Restorative Techniques

• Apply advanced techniques in denture, bridge, and crown fabrication.
• Analyse complex restorative cases and plan laboratory procedures.
• Ensure high-quality outcomes with precision and accuracy.
• Evaluate patient-specific requirements and adjust techniques accordingly.

Orthodontic Appliances Fabrication and Adjustment

• Fabricate and adjust advanced orthodontic appliances.
• Analyse treatment needs for complex malocclusions.
• Apply clinical and laboratory knowledge to optimise appliance function.
• Evaluate appliance effectiveness and recommend improvements.

Dental Ceramics and Aesthetic Dentistry

• Understand the properties and application of dental ceramics.
• Apply aesthetic principles to prosthetic design and fabrication.
• Analyse shade, form, and function for patient satisfaction.
• Evaluate finished ceramic restorations for quality and durability.

Implant Prosthetics and Surgical Support

• Understand principles of dental implants and prosthetic integration.
• Fabricate implant-supported restorations with precision.
• Analyse surgical requirements and collaborate with clinical teams.
• Evaluate outcomes and recommend improvements in prosthetic fit.

Advanced Dental Materials and Biomaterials

• Analyse the behaviour of advanced dental materials in practice.
• Apply biomaterials safely in laboratory and clinical settings.
• Evaluate material performance for different prosthetic solutions.
• Integrate material knowledge into complex case planning.

Dental Laboratory Management

• Understand workflow, resource allocation, and team coordination in a dental lab.
• Apply management strategies to optimise productivity and quality.
• Evaluate laboratory processes and implement improvements.
• Maintain compliance with regulatory and professional standards.

Quality Assurance and Standard Operating Procedures

• Understand QA processes in dental laboratory operations.
• Apply standard operating procedures consistently.
• Evaluate outcomes against industry benchmarks.
• Implement corrective measures to maintain high-quality standards.

Digital Dental Design and CAD/CAM Applications

• Apply advanced CAD/CAM techniques to prosthetic design.
• Analyse digital workflows for efficiency and accuracy.
• Integrate digital design into complex restorative and orthodontic cases.
• Evaluate digital outputs to ensure precision and clinical relevance.

Clinical Placement in Dental Laboratory or Clinic

• Apply theoretical knowledge in real-world clinical or laboratory settings.
• Conduct tasks with professional and ethical standards under supervision.
• Develop practical problem-solving and technical skills.
• Reflect on placement experience to improve professional competence.

Professional Development and Reflective Practice

• Identify personal and professional development goals.
• Reflect on practical and theoretical learning experiences.
• Apply feedback to enhance technical and professional skills.
• Demonstrate continuous improvement in competency and performance.

Research Methods and Applied Dental Technology Project

• Design and conduct applied research projects relevant to dental technology.
• Analyse data and interpret results to inform practice.
• Apply evidence-based methodologies in laboratory work.
• Present findings clearly and professionally.

Capstone Project in Dental Technology

• Plan and execute a comprehensive dental technology project.
• Integrate advanced laboratory techniques and theoretical knowledge.
• Evaluate outcomes and ensure quality standards are met.
• Present a structured report demonstrating practical, analytical, and research skills.