Level 3 Extended Diploma in Dental Technology (BTEC)

Is this the course for you?

In order to gain employment in the dental technology sector as a dental technician, you are required to register with the General Dental Council (GDC). The Level 3 Extended Diploma in Dental Technology is a fully-recognised and accepted qualification for entry onto the GDC's register, meaning upon successful completion of this course you will be registered as a Dental Care Professional (DCP).

So, if your ambition is to become a qualified dental technician or dental care professional, then this is the perfect qualification to help you achieve your goal.

We offer the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Dental Technology as both a two-year full-time course, aimed at those of you not currently in full-time employment in a dental laboratory, and as a three-year part-time course, which is ideally suited to those learners already working in a dental laboratory environment.

On this course you will develop the theoretical and technical knowledge, and practical skills, that are required in all aspects of work carried out as a dental technician. Based at our well-equipped dental laboratories, you will study the theory and practical techniques of the fabrication of dental appliances in prosthetics (full, partial, and chrome dentures), fixed prosthodontics (crowns and bridges), and orthodontics (alignment and straightening of teeth using various appliances).

More than just developing your technical knowledge and skills, you will also learn about dental anatomy, physiology and disease; legislation, professionalism, and ethics in dentistry; and how to deal with medical emergencies and the application of first aid.

The two-year full-time course consists of up to three days of college-based study a week, with a requirement for 240 hours of work-based learning in a dental laboratory in your second year, while the three-year part-time course is comprised of one day of college study, and four days of dental laboratory employment per week.

How will you be assessed?

You will be assessed by a combination of practical assignments, written assignments, and course work.

What do you need to apply?

• 2 GCSE qualifications at grades A*-D or 9-3, including English Language
• Level 1 vocational qualification and a Level 1 English qualification

Additional information: You will be required to undergo a manual dexterity assessment.

Where can this course take you?

Successful completion of this course will qualify you to register with the General Dental Council and gain employment as a registered Dental Technician.

Following the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Dental Technology, you may wish to further expand your knowledge and skills and progress into Higher Education to study for a Foundation or Bachelors degree.