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