Dental Therapy
What is a Dental Therapist?
Dental Therapy students practise on simulator head
A Dental Therapist is a Dental Care Professional who works as a member of the dental team in all sectors of dentistry. A Dental Therapist provides a range of restorative dental treatments to adults and children and the delivery of oral health care and advice.
A flexible team approach, high levels of manual dexterity, professionalism and a caring attitude are essential. Good communication, problem-solving and decision-making skills are vitally important in this role.
As a Dental Therapist you will:
- Treat dental caries and place restorations (fillings) in permanent and primary teeth
- Extract primary teeth under local anaesthesia
- Fit preformed metal crowns on primary molars
- Perform pulp therapies on primary teeth
- Use fluoride therapies to reduce dental caries (decay)
- Take and interpret dental radiographs
- Provide holistic care, prevention and oral health advice
For further details on the role of a Dental Therapist, please visit the General Dental Council Website.
Course overview
The Diploma in Dental Therapy, is a two-year part-time (two consecutive days per week) training programme for GDC registered Dental Hygienists.
"It was a privilege to be accepted onto this programme. The teaching and facilities have been exceptional. Staff and fellow students have made this an enjoyable experience" DCP Student.
Pre-clinical training begins in week one using simulator heads in our newly refurbished Clinical Skills Laboratory. This training develops restorative skills prior to clinical treatment of ‘live’ patients. Teaching is delivered by dedicated Dental Therapy Tutors and our Associate Specialist .
Academic tutorials and seminars continue alongside clinical supervision throughout the programme. You will treat a diverse range of patients with varied social and dental needs based in a variety of clinical settings in the Bristol Dental Hospital and Outreach Clinics.
Preventive oral healthcare is an important role and Dental Therapists are trained to provide a holistic approach to dental treatment and care.
Throughout the programme you should expect home-study assignments, reading and research. This approach encourages learning based upon personal curiosity and exploration.
Full details are contained within the course prospectus (Word, 50Kb) and in the term dates (Word 32Kb). You may apply by downloading and printing an Dental Therapy Diploma application form (Word, 368Kb), or complete and return via email. To be considered for April entry, applications must be received by 30th September of the previous year.
Student finance
Student loans may be available to help with your living costs and your Local Authority will advise you if you are eligible, or contact the Student Loans Company, freephone 0800 40 50 10. Bursaries are means tested.
Another useful link is to the Student Funding office.
Dental Care Professional Clinic, Bristol Dental Hospital
Career prospects
All Dental Care Professionals are registered with the General Dental Council and must complete mandatory Continuing Professional Development, including reflective practice, peer review, self-audit and professional seminars or meetings. This is important throughout your career, to ensure high levels of safety and competency are maintained. Membership to professional organisations such as BADT and BSDHT are highly recommended.
Dental Therapists can work in:
- General Dental Practice
- Community and Primary Dental Care Services
- Research posts
- Health promotion
- Lecture posts
- Positions overseas