4112 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.

​​​​​​​Indicative Skill Level:

Most occupations in this unit group have a level of skill commensurate with the qualifications and experience outlined below.

In Australia:

  • AQF Bachelor degree or higher qualification. At least five years of relevant experience may substitute for the formal qualification (ANZSCO Skill Level 1)

    In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification.

    The occupation Dental Technician in this unit group has a level of skill commensurate with the qualifications and experience outlined below.

    In Australia:

    • AQF Associate Degree, Advanced Diploma or Diploma, or at least three years of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 2)

      In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification.

      The occupation Dental Prosthetist in this unit group has a level of skill commensurate with the qualifications and experience outlined below.

      In Australia:

      • AQF Associate Degree, Advanced Diploma or Diploma, or at least three years of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 2)

        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:

        • 411211 Dental Hygienist
        • 411213 Dental Technician
        • 411214 Dental Therapist

        411211 Dental Hygienist

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

        Skill Level: 1

        411213 Dental Technician

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

        Skill Level: 2

        Specialisation:

        • Dental Laboratory Assistant

        411214 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.

        Skill Level: 1

        Specialisation:

        • Oral Health Therapist