How to become a dental technician in the UK

The dental technology sector is currently experiencing a notable shift. With the UK’s ageing population, the demand for dental prosthetics is skyrocketing, but a significant shortage of dental technicians is expected to worsen over the coming years. In the last two decades, the number of dental technicians in the UK has fallen by 34%, with only around 4,935 professionals remaining today compared to as many as 7,400 in 2008. This decline has resulted in a ratio of 9:1 dentists to technicians, which means there’s a huge opportunity for new professionals, like you, to enter the field.

As the industry embraces technological advancements like 3D printing and AI, new dental technicians are needed to oversee and manage both traditional methods and cutting-edge technologies. Adaptable, qualified dental technicians equipped with the latest skills, like those you learn at the University of Bolton, will find themselves with a lasting and rewarding career.

What does a dental technician do?

Wondering what the difference is between a dental technician and a traditional dentist? Well, a career in dental technology is diverse in its daily responsibilities. Overall, it involves working in dental laboratories creating a variety of dental appliances from crowns and veneers to orthopaedic braces and dentures. Dental techs work closely with dentists to come up with personalised solutions for their patients that blend manual craft with digital design.

The rise of digital systems such as CAD/CAM has made the field even more dynamic, requiring dental lab tech workers to stay up to date with the latest advances. This makes dental technology a particularly exciting career option if you enjoy working with your hands, have an eye for detail and have a passion for science and healthcare.

How to become a dental technician

To become a dental technician in the UK, you typically need to complete a recognised qualification, such as a foundation degree, higher national diploma or bachelor’s degree in dental technology. We offer a comprehensive BSc (Hons) Dental Technology course designed to give you both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills you need to thrive in this evolving field. This degree is fully accredited and meets the General Dental Council (GDC) requirements, ensuring you’ll be fully prepared to register and practice as a dental technician in the UK.

We’re known for our strong focus on employability and we give our students the skills they need to succeed in the workforce. Our excellent connections with dental labs across the UK offer you valuable networking opportunities and work placements during your studies, where you’ll learn about dental materials, oral anatomy and digital design methods that ensure you’re well-equipped for the demands of modern dentistry.

With such a growing demand for new talent, now is the perfect time to consider a career as a dental technician. To get started, talk to us at 01204 903394 or email enquiries@bolton.ac.uk to experience #UniAsItShouldBe and start working towards your rewarding career in this dynamic healthcare profession.