Dental Hygienists, Technicians And Therapists

Dental Hygienists, Technicians And Therapists provide supportive dental services in preventative and restorative dental procedures, and construct and repair dental appliances.

Most occupations in this field typically require an Associate Degree, Advanced Diploma or Diploma.

At least three years of relevant experience may substitute for the formal qualifications listed above. In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification.

Registration or licensing may be required.

Tasks Include:

• providing educational programs to motivate children, parents and the community in matters relating to oral health
• providing fluoride therapy by applying remineralising solutions and desensitising agents
• removing deposits from teeth
• applying non-invasive fissure sealants to teeth
• taking impressions of the mouth
• taking dental radiographs
• administering local anaesthesia by infiltration and mandibular nerve block
• fabricating full and partial dentures
• constructing mouth guards, crowns, metal clasps, inlays, bridgework and other aids
• repairing and relining denture bases

Occupations:

• Dental Hygienist 
• Dental Prosthetist 
• Dental Technician 
• Dental Therapist

Dental Hygienist

Carries out preventative dental procedures under the direction of a Dentist. Registration or licensing is required.

Dental Prosthetist

Alternative Title:

• Clinical Dental Technician

Designs, constructs, repairs and fits dentures and mouthguards. Registration or licensing is required.

Dental Technician

Constructs and repairs dentures and other dental appliances. Registration or licensing may be required.

Specialisation:

• Dental Laboratory Assistant

Dental Therapist

Examines and treats diseases of the teeth in preschool, primary and secondary school children under the general supervision of a Dentist. Registration or licensing is required.

Specialisation:

• Oral Health Therapist