Dental Technology

NAIT's Dental Technology program is designed to provide students with a working knowledge of the art and science of fabricating corrective devices and replacements for natural teeth and tissues. The dental technologist is a craftsperson who is an essential member of the dental health-care team. The technologist, working to the prescription of a qualified practitioner, is responsible for the construction of dental appliances and devices used to improve the well-being of the patient. These applications and devices include crowns, bridges, dentures and orthodontic appliances used to correct damaged, lost or irregular teeth.

Throughout the program the students recreate the appearance of natural teeth in fixed restorations (such as crowns, bridges and implant restorations), using porcelains, metal alloys, all-ceramic materials, plastics and, with the aid of a computer, CAD/CAM technology. For removable restorations (complete and partial dentures) and corrective devices (orthodontic appliances), the dental technologist must understand physical and biological forces and the characteristics and handling properties of waxes, wires and acrylic materials.

Prospective students must have a high degree of technical ability and manual skills along with scientific knowledge and a degree of artistry. They should also possess good hand-eye co-ordination and colour perception, dexterity in using small instruments, patience in attending to minute details and an interest in learning about the underlying material sciences.

The program provides theoretical and technical training in designing and constructing dental restorative devices and tooth repositioning appliances. Throughout the two-year program, students gain skills in communication, understanding and application of anatomy, dental asepsis, workplace relations, laboratory procedures and employment skills for a professional environment. Practical laboratory work is emphasized to prepare the student for employment.