Bachelor of Dental Technology (BDentTech)
Allied Health
A course by
Otago University
A three-year degree that prepares you for a career as a dental technician, focusing on the scientific and technical skills required to design, fabricate, and assess dental prostheses and appliances.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Dunedin, Dunedin
It will take a total of 3 years
Core skills this course teaches
Technical expertise in prosthetic fabrication
Develop hands-on skills in crafting high-quality, custom-made dental prostheses including dentures, crowns, and bridges using modern materials and techniques.
Digital dental technology skills
Apply contemporary digital tools such as CAD/CAM, 3D printing, and milling to dental appliance design and manufacture.
3D visualisation and problem solving
Demonstrate a strong 3D visual perspective and problem-solving skills to ensure precise fit and function of dental appliances.
What You're Signing Up For
The Bachelor of Dental Technology (BDentTech) at Otago offers training at the intersection of science and technical skill, preparing students to design and manufacture dental prosthetics under the prescription of dentists. The programme emphasises digital advancements such as CAD/CAM and 3D printing, and graduates are eligible for registration with the Dental Council (NZ). Students gain hands-on experience in high-tech laboratories and learn to craft artificial teeth, crowns, bridges, and orthodontic appliances. The degree is regulated under the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act to ensure professional standards and patient safety. The qualification typically takes three years of full-time study.
Course Content
- Prosthetic dentistry principles
- 3D printing and digital workflows in dental technology
- Computer-aided design (CAD) and manufacturing (CAM)
- Milling for precision dental appliances
- Complete and partial dentures
- Crowns and bridges fabrication
- Orthodontic appliances
- Implant-supported dentures
- Practical and theoretical laboratory work
- Assessment through oral, practical, and written examinations
What you need to know first
NCEA Level 3 (or equivalent) with minimum 14 credits in each of two approved subjects from Science, Mathematics, or Technology within the last five years (for Secondary School applicants)
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Allied Health
Dental Technology
Dental Laboratory Science
Future employment opportunities might be
Registered Dental Technician (NZ)
Dental laboratory technician in commercial or hospital laboratories
Dental technology industry roles