The Level 5 Apprentice in Dental Technician is based within the field of dentistry and is typically carried out in a dental laboratory.
The primary purpose of the role is to design, manufacture, modify, and repair custom-made dental appliances. This work is usually completed in a dental laboratory following a prescription from a dentist. This broadly covers three key areas: crown and bridge, dentures, and orthodontics.
While most laboratories specialise in one or two of these areas, apprentices will gain full end to end competence across all disciplines during their training, before choosing a specialism once qualified.
In day to day work, individuals in this occupation interact with the wider dental team. Dental technicians must comply with professional regulations, collaborate with dental practices, and may occasionally meet patients. They are expected to work with minimal supervision and are accountable for the quality and accuracy of their completed work before it is provided to the dentist and patient.
A dental technician is responsible for producing precise, custom-made medical devices and must demonstrate exceptional attention to detail, colour perception, and manual dexterity—skills comparable to those of a fine artist.
Dental technicians are registered professionals and must work within the standards and scope of practice defined by the General Dental Council (GDC) Scope of Practice document.
In addition to meeting the National Standards for The Level 5 Apprentice in Dental Technician, learners' will achieve the Level 5 Dental Technology Fondation Degree qualification.
The Level 5 embedded Foundation Degree qualification underpins and provides additional evidence that National Standards for the Level 5 Apprentice programme have been achieved.
What experience and skills will you gain?
Topics covered include:
- Introduction to Dental Technology
- Principles of Dental Anatomy
- Professional Practice
- Preventative Dentistry
- Work-Based Learning
- Basic Dental Materials
- Complex Dental Materials
- Dental Technology Techniques
- Advanced Dental Technology Techniques
- Occlusion & Morphology?
- Dental Technology Techniques 2 (Removable Complete Pros & Orthodontics)
- Dental Technology Techniques 3 (Partial Dentures)
Students also study professional legislation, infection control, and ethics, ensuring they are well-prepared for safe, effective, and compliant clinical practice. Practical training is supported by simulation and real-world application, helping students develop confidence and competence in their technical roles.
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Campus
This course will be delivered at London South Bank Technical College - Nine elms
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What do you need to apply?
To enrol on this programme you typically need to be working within a Dental laboratory for at least 30 hours per week including one day of learning. Your employer will need to agree for you to attend college for One day a week- set day to be confirmed.
Most candidates will have A levels or existing relevant Level 3 qualifications and English and Maths GCSE at Grade C/5 or above (or approved equivalent).
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How will you be assessed?
The Apprentice programme runs over three academic years, one day per week plus the End Point Assessment Period, with time to complete GDC requirements ( more information to be given during Induction) .
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Where can this course take you?
A Level 5 Dental Technician apprenticeship leads to qualification as a GDC-registered Dental Technician, allowing you to design and repair dental devices like dentures, crowns, and orthodontic appliances. It opens careers in commercial labs, hospitals, or specialised digital dentistry, with progression to senior roles or further education in dental technology
