Laboratory Technician Apprenticeship (Level 3)

Dental Laboratory Apprentice – Level 3 Dental Technician

Apprenticeship

Level 3 Dental Technician

Employment Type

Apprenticeship / Full-time

Job Purpose

To undertake structured workplace training and education towards qualification as a Level 3 Dental Technician, developing the knowledge, practical skills and professional behaviours required to work safely and effectively within a dental laboratory.

The Apprentice Dental Technician will learn to receive, assess, design, manufacture, finish, quality-check and dispatch dental appliances and laboratory work under appropriate supervision. The role will provide practical experience across fixed and removable prosthodontics, dental materials, digital dentistry and CAD/CAM, quality assurance, infection prevention and control, health and safety, professional conduct and communication.

The apprentice will work progressively towards the knowledge, skills and behaviours required for GDC registration as a Dental Technician through the approved education and training programme.

Regulatory and Professional Framework

The apprentice will be expected to work in accordance with

• General Dental Council (GDC) Standards for the Dental Team.

• GDC guidance relating to trainee/student dental technicians.

• GDC requirements for education and training leading to registration.

• The laboratory's policies, procedures and quality management system.

• Relevant legislation relating to health and safety, medical devices, confidentiality, data protection and infection prevention and control.

• The requirements of the approved Level 3 Dental Technology qualification and training provider.

The GDC confirms that trainee dental technicians may be employed while undertaking a recognised programme leading to GDC registration, but they must receive appropriate training and supervision. A named GDC registrant must take responsibility for their supervision until registration is achieved.

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Key Responsibilities

1. Dental Laboratory Practice and Appliance Production

The apprentice will develop competence in the complete laboratory workflow, including

• Receiving and registering dental laboratory prescriptions and work.

• Checking prescriptions, impressions, models, scans and accompanying information.

• Identifying incomplete, unclear or potentially unsafe prescriptions and escalating concerns appropriately.

• Preparing and organising laboratory work according to the prescription and laboratory workflow.

• Developing practical skills in model and appliance production.

• Assisting with the manufacture, finishing, polishing and preparation of dental appliances.

• Developing appropriate hand skills and laboratory techniques.

• Carrying out work within the limits of competence and level of training.

• Completing laboratory records and maintaining traceability.

• Preparing completed work for quality control and dispatch.

• Learning to manage workflow, priorities and deadlines.

Working Week

Monday - Friday, 8-4

Qualifications Required

GCSEs in Maths, English, and a science subject (or equivalent) at grade 4-9 or equivalent.

Personal Qualities

Calm, Compassionate, Confident, Caring, Thirst for Knowledge

Skills Required

· A keen interest in the dental nurse profession

· Tact and discretion for handling confidential patient information responsibly.

· Clear and effective communication skills, essential for patient care and teamwork.

· Strong interpersonal skills to build rapport with patients.

· Collaborative teamwork abilities to work seamlessly with colleagues.

· Exceptional organisational and time management skills to handle priorities effectively.

· Ability to multi-task, managing multiple responsibilities efficiently.

· Calm demeanour in fast-paced environments, maintaining focus and professionalism.

· Ability to remain composed under pressure, managing high-stress situations effectively.

Training to be Provided

Laboratory Technician Level 3

Future Prospects

Advancing Within Dental Nursing

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Lead Dental Nurse

Take on more responsibilities by managing other dental nurses and overseeing practice operations.

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Practice Manager

Move into a management role, handling the day-to-day running of the dental practice.

Specialisation Opportunities

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Orthodontic Nursing

Assist in orthodontic treatments, gaining expertise in appliances and aligners.

Moving Into Clinical Roles

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Dental Hygienist or Therapist

With further qualifications, progress into roles focused on providing oral hygiene treatments or minor dental procedures.

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Extended Duties Dental Nurse

Gain additional skills such as fluoride application, impression taking, or assisting in sedation procedures.

Transition to Education or Research

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Trainer or Assessor

Use your experience to teach and assess trainee dental nurses.

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Dental Researcher

Contribute to advancements in dentistry by working in research roles.

Related Healthcare Careers

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Specialist Healthcare Settings

Work in maxillofacial units, hospitals, or with oral surgeons.

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Broader Healthcare Roles

Transition into other areas of healthcare, leveraging transferable skills.

Extended Skills

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Dental Radiography

Train to take radiographs, an essential skill in modern dental practices.

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Oral Health Promotion

Work with patients and communities to educate on oral hygiene and preventative care.

Apprenticeship Duration

12 Months