What is a Dental Technician?
What is a Dental Technician ?
Everyone knows what a dentist does. You go in, sit in the chair, and the dentist checks your teeth, maybe takes an impression or a scan, and talks about how to fix or improve your smile. But have you ever wondered what happens next? Those impressions and scans don’t just sit around....they get sent to a dental laboratory. That’s where we come in!
Inside the lab, a dental technician takes that information and turns it into something real. A dental technician is the person who designs and creates the dental restorations that help people eat, speak, and smile with confidence. These include veneers, crowns, bridges, dentures, mouthguards, aligners, and even custom grills. Technicians use a mix of science, technology, and artistry to make restorations that look natural, fit perfectly, and restore someone’s confidence. It’s a career where precision meets creativity, and no two days are ever the same. Every case is unique and different, every case is a real patient.
An apprentice dental technician is someone learning this craft hands-on while working in a real dental laboratory. You’ll spend most of your week in the lab, developing practical skills like setting teeth, trimming models, polishing dentures, shaping veneers, and using digital tools such as scanners and 3D printers to design restorations. One day a week, you’ll attend college to learn the theory behind what you do in the lab. Apprenticeships let you earn while you learn, gain experience, and build a career that blends healthcare, design, and technology. It’s a pathway that can take you from trainee to qualified dental technician, and eventually even to owning your own lab or becoming a clinical dental technician treating patients directly.
Everyone knows what a dentist does. You go in, sit in the chair, and the dentist checks your teeth, maybe takes an impression or a scan, and talks about how to fix or improve your smile. But have you ever wondered what happens next? Those impressions and scans don’t just sit around....they get sent to a dental laboratory. That’s where we come in!
Inside the lab, a dental technician takes that information and turns it into something real. A dental technician is the person who designs and creates the dental restorations that help people eat, speak, and smile with confidence. These include veneers, crowns, bridges, dentures, mouthguards, aligners, and even custom grills. Technicians use a mix of science, technology, and artistry to make restorations that look natural, fit perfectly, and restore someone’s confidence. It’s a career where precision meets creativity, and no two days are ever the same. Every case is unique and different, every case is a real patient.
An apprentice dental technician is someone learning this craft hands-on while working in a real dental laboratory. You’ll spend most of your week in the lab, developing practical skills like setting teeth, trimming models, polishing dentures, shaping veneers, and using digital tools such as scanners and 3D printers to design restorations. One day a week, you’ll attend college to learn the theory behind what you do in the lab. Apprenticeships let you earn while you learn, gain experience, and build a career that blends healthcare, design, and technology. It’s a pathway that can take you from trainee to qualified dental technician, and eventually even to owning your own lab or becoming a clinical dental technician treating patients directly.
What does a Apprentice Dental Technician do?
An apprentice dental technician is someone learning this craft hands on while working in a real dental laboratory. You will spend most of your week learning how dental restorations are designed and created, from how impressions and digital scans are turned into models to how those models become dentures, crowns, veneers, mouthguards and other restorations.
You will start by learning the foundations and practising on demonstration cases to build your skills and confidence. As you progress, you will move on to real patient cases under the supervision of qualified dental technicians who will guide and check your work. Apprentices are supported by experienced technicians and managers within a professional, quality controlled environment that focuses on accuracy, consistency and teamwork.
The learning experience combines both education and practical training. You will study the theory one day a week at college while applying what you learn directly in the lab for the rest of the week. This balance helps you understand the science, materials and design principles behind every restoration while developing real technical ability. It is a role that encourages curiosity, discipline and pride in your craft and gives you the opportunity to grow from trainee to fully qualified dental technician with a respected career in the dental profession.
You will start by learning the foundations and practising on demonstration cases to build your skills and confidence. As you progress, you will move on to real patient cases under the supervision of qualified dental technicians who will guide and check your work. Apprentices are supported by experienced technicians and managers within a professional, quality controlled environment that focuses on accuracy, consistency and teamwork.
The learning experience combines both education and practical training. You will study the theory one day a week at college while applying what you learn directly in the lab for the rest of the week. This balance helps you understand the science, materials and design principles behind every restoration while developing real technical ability. It is a role that encourages curiosity, discipline and pride in your craft and gives you the opportunity to grow from trainee to fully qualified dental technician with a respected career in the dental profession.
What Skills and Qualifications Do I Need?
You do not need to be top of your class to start a career in dental technology. Most apprentices join after school or college with GCSEs or equivalent qualifications in English, maths, science, art, design technology or ICT. Subjects that involve creativity, precision or using your hands are all useful, especially if you have tried CAD or CAM design.
Manual dexterity and good hand and eye coordination are essential, along with patience and focus. If you enjoyed working with materials, tools or creative software at school, you already have a head start. Art, graphics, and design projects build your attention to shape and proportion, while science and maths help you understand how things fit and function.
Transferable skills such as teamwork, problem solving and time management are also valuable. Whether you liked painting, model making, jewellery work or gaming, anything that builds concentration and fine motor skills will help you in the lab.
Dental technology suits people who are calm, curious and take pride in doing things properly. Those habits will help you grow into a confident and capable technician.
Manual dexterity and good hand and eye coordination are essential, along with patience and focus. If you enjoyed working with materials, tools or creative software at school, you already have a head start. Art, graphics, and design projects build your attention to shape and proportion, while science and maths help you understand how things fit and function.
Transferable skills such as teamwork, problem solving and time management are also valuable. Whether you liked painting, model making, jewellery work or gaming, anything that builds concentration and fine motor skills will help you in the lab.
Dental technology suits people who are calm, curious and take pride in doing things properly. Those habits will help you grow into a confident and capable technician.
Attributes and Qualities We Look For
The best dental technicians start with the right attitude. Skills can be taught, but attitude, focus and discipline come from within. We look for people who take pride in their work, show up on time and pay attention to the small details that make a big difference.
You need to be curious, willing to learn and able to stay calm under pressure. In a lab, teamwork matters. You will be surrounded by experienced technicians who rely on clear communication, trust and consistency. We expect you to take ownership of your work, be proactive and think ahead rather than wait to be told what to do.
Our core values guide everything. Find solutions, never excuses. Give one percent more with every task. Be disciplined, stay organised and keep a professional attitude at all times. Build relationships, not transactions. Work smart, communicate with warmth and always be proud of what you produce. These qualities are what make a great technician and what every apprentice should aim to develop.
You need to be curious, willing to learn and able to stay calm under pressure. In a lab, teamwork matters. You will be surrounded by experienced technicians who rely on clear communication, trust and consistency. We expect you to take ownership of your work, be proactive and think ahead rather than wait to be told what to do.
Our core values guide everything. Find solutions, never excuses. Give one percent more with every task. Be disciplined, stay organised and keep a professional attitude at all times. Build relationships, not transactions. Work smart, communicate with warmth and always be proud of what you produce. These qualities are what make a great technician and what every apprentice should aim to develop.
How does a Dental Technician Apprenticeship Works
A Dental Technology Apprenticeship, also known as a Dental Technician Apprenticeship, is a structured way to learn the trade while working in a real laboratory. It combines education and experience so you can earn while you learn. Most apprentices spend four days a week in the lab and one day a week at college. The college lessons cover the theory, materials, science and regulations that support what you do in the lab.
The course usually takes around three years to complete, leading to a Level 5 Dental Technician Apprenticeship qualification. Once you pass and finish your portfolio, you can register with the General Dental Council (GDC) as a qualified dental technician.
Apprenticeships are open to people of all ages, though most start after leaving school or college. You will be employed by a dental laboratory that supports your learning and helps you complete your logbooks and practical assessments. Everything you do in the lab builds towards your qualification, from demonstration cases to supervised patient work.
The course usually takes around three years to complete, leading to a Level 5 Dental Technician Apprenticeship qualification. Once you pass and finish your portfolio, you can register with the General Dental Council (GDC) as a qualified dental technician.
Apprenticeships are open to people of all ages, though most start after leaving school or college. You will be employed by a dental laboratory that supports your learning and helps you complete your logbooks and practical assessments. Everything you do in the lab builds towards your qualification, from demonstration cases to supervised patient work.
The Different Routes You Can Take
There are a few ways to get started.
You can apply for a full apprenticeship through a college or directly with a dental laboratory that has an apprenticeship provider. This route gives you paid employment and a structured training plan.
You can start as a lab assistant. This is a paid, entry level role where you help with daily lab tasks such as pouring models, trimming plaster and organising work. It gives you valuable experience and can lead into a full apprenticeship later.
You can also do a short unpaid internship or work placement. This helps you gain experience, understand the environment and see if the career is right for you. Many people who start this way are later offered paid positions or support with their college applications.
All routes give you a chance to learn the craft, gain experience in a professional setting and build your confidence.
You can apply for a full apprenticeship through a college or directly with a dental laboratory that has an apprenticeship provider. This route gives you paid employment and a structured training plan.
You can start as a lab assistant. This is a paid, entry level role where you help with daily lab tasks such as pouring models, trimming plaster and organising work. It gives you valuable experience and can lead into a full apprenticeship later.
You can also do a short unpaid internship or work placement. This helps you gain experience, understand the environment and see if the career is right for you. Many people who start this way are later offered paid positions or support with their college applications.
All routes give you a chance to learn the craft, gain experience in a professional setting and build your confidence.
Where Can I Study Dental Technology or an Apprenticeship
Across the UK there are several universities and colleges that offer dental technology courses and apprenticeships. Some focus on full-time study while others combine college and work in a laboratory. When choosing where to apply, think about your location, how you want to learn, and whether you prefer a full-time course or an apprenticeship that lets you earn while you learn.
Below is a list of recognised course providers across the UK offering Dental Technology or Dental Technician Apprenticeships.
Below is a list of recognised course providers across the UK offering Dental Technology or Dental Technician Apprenticeships.
List of colleges and universities (Updated 22/10/25)
1. South Bank Colleges
Location: London, England
Course: Level 3 Dental Technician Apprenticeship
Study Mode: Apprenticeship (work-based, day release)
Contact Phone: 0207 501 5010
Contact Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.southbankcolleges.ac.uk/courses/apprenticeships/level-3-dental-technician-apprenticeship
2. University of Bolton
Location: Bolton, Greater Manchester, England
Course: FdSc Dental Technology – Higher Apprenticeship (Level 5)
Study Mode: Part-time Apprenticeship (work-based and university study)
Contact Phone: 01204 903 940
Contact Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.bolton.ac.uk/course/fdsc-dental-technology-level-5-dental-technician-higher-apprenticeship-st0108-part-time-3-years-university-of-bolton/2025-26
3. University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)
Location: Preston, Lancashire, England
Course: Dental Technology Higher Apprenticeship / FdSc Dental Technology
Study Mode: Full-time or Blended Apprenticeship route
Contact Phone: 01772 201 201
Contact Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.lancashire.ac.uk/degree-apprenticeships/courses/dental-technology-fdsc
4. Yeovil College
Location: Yeovil, Somerset, England
Course: Level 5 Dental Technician Apprenticeship (Integrated)
Study Mode: Apprenticeship (employer based with college day release)
Contact Phone: 01935 845 392
Contact Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.yeovil.ac.uk/course/335162/dental-technician-level-5-apprenticeship-starting-between-august-2025-and-july-2026
5. Cardiff Metropolitan University
Location: Cardiff, Wales
Course: BSc (Hons) Dental Technology
Study Mode: Full-time (with part-time options)
Contact Phone: 029 2041 6070
Contact Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/courses/undergraduate/bsc-dental-technology
6. Nottingham College
Location: Nottingham, England
Course: Foundation Degree (Level 5) in Dental Technology
Study Mode: Part-time
Contact Phone: 0115 9100 100
Contact Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.nottinghamcollege.ac.uk/courses/dental-technology-foundation-degree-level-5-part-time
7. BMet College
Location: Birmingham, England
Course: Level 5 Dental Technology Apprenticeship / Technical Diploma
Study Mode: Full-time / Apprenticeship
Contact Phone: 0121 446 4545
Contact Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.bmet.ac.uk/courses/detail/dental-technology-foundation-degree-university-of-worcester-2/
8. Leeds Teaching Hospital
Location: Leeds, England
Course: Dental Technology – BTEC Extended Diploma
Study Mode: Full-time / Part-time
Contact Phone: 0113 2432799
Contact Email: Vacancies are advertised through NHS jobs.
Website: https://www.leedsth.nhs.uk/services/school-of-dental-care-professionals/school-of-dental-care-professionals-courses/dental-technology-btec-extended-diploma/
9. Queen Mary - University of London
Location: Whitechapel, London, England
Course: Dental Technology Msc
Study Mode: Apprenticeship / Part-time
Contact Phone: 020 7882 8930
Contact Email: [email protected].
Website: https://www.qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/taught/coursefinder/courses/dental-technology-msc/
10. University of Sheffield
Location: Whitechapel, London, England
Course: Dental Technology Msc
Study Mode: Apprenticeship / Part-time
Contact Phone: 0114 260 2600
Contact Email: [email protected]
Website: www.sheffcol.ac.uk/courses/page/23A8F844-4E72-420E-8041-C5639119A9BD
Location: London, England
Course: Level 3 Dental Technician Apprenticeship
Study Mode: Apprenticeship (work-based, day release)
Contact Phone: 0207 501 5010
Contact Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.southbankcolleges.ac.uk/courses/apprenticeships/level-3-dental-technician-apprenticeship
2. University of Bolton
Location: Bolton, Greater Manchester, England
Course: FdSc Dental Technology – Higher Apprenticeship (Level 5)
Study Mode: Part-time Apprenticeship (work-based and university study)
Contact Phone: 01204 903 940
Contact Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.bolton.ac.uk/course/fdsc-dental-technology-level-5-dental-technician-higher-apprenticeship-st0108-part-time-3-years-university-of-bolton/2025-26
3. University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)
Location: Preston, Lancashire, England
Course: Dental Technology Higher Apprenticeship / FdSc Dental Technology
Study Mode: Full-time or Blended Apprenticeship route
Contact Phone: 01772 201 201
Contact Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.lancashire.ac.uk/degree-apprenticeships/courses/dental-technology-fdsc
4. Yeovil College
Location: Yeovil, Somerset, England
Course: Level 5 Dental Technician Apprenticeship (Integrated)
Study Mode: Apprenticeship (employer based with college day release)
Contact Phone: 01935 845 392
Contact Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.yeovil.ac.uk/course/335162/dental-technician-level-5-apprenticeship-starting-between-august-2025-and-july-2026
5. Cardiff Metropolitan University
Location: Cardiff, Wales
Course: BSc (Hons) Dental Technology
Study Mode: Full-time (with part-time options)
Contact Phone: 029 2041 6070
Contact Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/courses/undergraduate/bsc-dental-technology
6. Nottingham College
Location: Nottingham, England
Course: Foundation Degree (Level 5) in Dental Technology
Study Mode: Part-time
Contact Phone: 0115 9100 100
Contact Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.nottinghamcollege.ac.uk/courses/dental-technology-foundation-degree-level-5-part-time
7. BMet College
Location: Birmingham, England
Course: Level 5 Dental Technology Apprenticeship / Technical Diploma
Study Mode: Full-time / Apprenticeship
Contact Phone: 0121 446 4545
Contact Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.bmet.ac.uk/courses/detail/dental-technology-foundation-degree-university-of-worcester-2/
8. Leeds Teaching Hospital
Location: Leeds, England
Course: Dental Technology – BTEC Extended Diploma
Study Mode: Full-time / Part-time
Contact Phone: 0113 2432799
Contact Email: Vacancies are advertised through NHS jobs.
Website: https://www.leedsth.nhs.uk/services/school-of-dental-care-professionals/school-of-dental-care-professionals-courses/dental-technology-btec-extended-diploma/
9. Queen Mary - University of London
Location: Whitechapel, London, England
Course: Dental Technology Msc
Study Mode: Apprenticeship / Part-time
Contact Phone: 020 7882 8930
Contact Email: [email protected].
Website: https://www.qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/taught/coursefinder/courses/dental-technology-msc/
10. University of Sheffield
Location: Whitechapel, London, England
Course: Dental Technology Msc
Study Mode: Apprenticeship / Part-time
Contact Phone: 0114 260 2600
Contact Email: [email protected]
Website: www.sheffcol.ac.uk/courses/page/23A8F844-4E72-420E-8041-C5639119A9BD
Dental Laboratories That Offer Apprenticeships or Work Experience
Many dental laboratories across the UK support apprenticeships, internships and work placements. Some offer full apprenticeship programmes in partnership with local colleges, while others provide short-term training or assistant roles to help you get started. If you are serious about a career in dental technology, reaching out to a lab is one of the best ways to get real experience and see the job in action.
Below is a growing list of UK dental laboratories that support apprentices and trainees.
Below is a growing list of UK dental laboratories that support apprentices and trainees.
1. Bremadent Dental Laboratory
Location: London, England
Study Mode: Apprenticeship, work placement, lab assistant opportunities
Contact Phone: 020 8520 8528
Contact Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.bremadent.co.uk
Location: London, England
Study Mode: Apprenticeship, work placement, lab assistant opportunities
Contact Phone: 020 8520 8528
Contact Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.bremadent.co.uk