Dental Therapist: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path
Learn about the key skills, qualifications, and career path for a Dental Therapist
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Practice Now »What is a Dental Therapist?
A Dental Therapist in the UK performs a range of tasks such as routine check-ups, fillings, and tooth extractions, primarily focusing on the preventative measures and treatment of oral diseases. Aside from this, they also provide patients with advice on oral hygiene and carry out some cosmetic dentistry procedures.
Skills
- Dental hygiene and oral health assessment
- Dental treatment planning and implementation
- Restorative dentistry skills
- Knowledge of dental materials and equipment
- Patient communication and education
- Ability to work as part of a dental team
- Infection control and sterilization procedures
- Dental radiography and imaging interpretation
- Pain management and local anesthesia administration
- Record keeping and documentation skills
Qualifications & Education
- An approved university degree is required for entry into the field of dentistry in the UK
- Completion of a period of postgraduate vocational training is also necessary
- Graduate entry to dental school may be possible
- Registration with the General Dental Council is a pre-requisite to practice
- Specialization in specific fields of dentistry requires further study and training
Career Path
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, dental therapists are in demand in the UK. The number of dental therapists employed in general dental practices, both for NHS and private treatment, is increasing due to the growing need for oral healthcare and treatment for patients of all ages.
To be a dental therapist in the UK, you need to obtain a diploma or degree in dental therapy and be registered with the General Dental Council. Additionally, you'll need five GCSE subjects at grade 4-7 or A to C, plus two A-levels or a recognized qualification in dental nursing.
A dental therapist in the UK is a professional who can perform the tasks of a dental hygienist, such as cleaning teeth and providing oral health education. Additionally, they are also qualified to do simple restorations like fillings, place temporary fillings, re-cement crowns, and place pre-formed crowns on baby teeth.
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