The University of Malta's Faculty of Dental Surgery was established in 1954 and has since been successful in the training and teaching of many students wishing a profession within the multidisciplinary fields of Dentistry.
During the last five years the Faculty has undergone many advances and innovations. These include the introduction of B.Sc. (Hons) programmes of study in Dental Hygiene and Dental Technology, a Diploma in Dental Surgery Assistance, expansion of the clinical teaching facilities within the Teaching Clinic sited at Mater Dei Hospital, a new preclinical teaching area in the Biomedical Building on the University's main campus, a Geriatric Teaching Clinic at St Vincent de Paul Residence and its own Mobile Dental Unit adding this new dimension of outreach programmes to the Faculty curricula.
The B.Sc. (Hons) in Dental Hygiene prepares dental hygienists to prevent the development and progression of oral disease and provides preventive services and educational information to the public to practise behaviours that promote better oral health. The Dental Hygienist uses scientific knowledge and clinical skills to help individuals maintain optimum oral health. The role provides personal satisfaction while establishing trusting relationships with patients. Work opportunities on full- and part-time basis occur at hospitals, community services and private practice.
For more details visit: http://www.um.edu.mt/ds/overview/UBSCHIDNYFT-2016-7-O
The B.Sc. (Hons) in Dental Technology prepares the student in the art and science of Dental Technology. Besides the theoretical component, this course of studies carries a considerable practical component where the student is trained in laboratory procedures leading to the construction of orthodontic appliances, full and partial dentures and dental crowns and bridges. The trained dental technologist may also eventually produce speciality items such as surgical splints, sports mouth guards and implant supported restorations.
For more details visit: http://www.um.edu.mt/ds/overview/UBSCHIDNTFT-2016-7-O
A further milestone last year was the introduction of yet another course of studies - that leading to a Diploma in Dental Surgery Assistance at MQF Level 5. The Faculty of Dental Surgery has recognised that to promote progress within the profession it is necessary to provide training to all the components of the dental team. In this manner it can be assured that all disciplines advance concurrently, keeping abreast with current advances and developments. This is essential within the dynamics of a dental team where the nature of the functioning of all the members is interrelated.
The dental assistant is an integral and valuable part of the dental team and cooperates closely with the dentist and dental hygienist in the clinics, and with the dental technologist in the laboratory, thereby greatly increasing the efficiency in the provision of oral care. The Faculty of Dental Surgery recognises the importance of this role and currently employs a number of dental surgery assistants who help in the operation of the various clinics the Faculty runs.
The dental assistant is responsible for setting up the dental clinic according to planned dental procedures and also for serving as an infection control officer by maintaining cleanliness and sterility within the clinical environment.
Other duties of the dental assistant include facilitating patient comfort before, during, and after dental treatment and providing patients with oral care instructions following dental treatment procedures and teaching them appropriate oral hygiene strategies to maintain oral health. The dental assistant also provides chair side assistance to the dental operator, pours impressions of patients' teeth for study casts (models of teeth), performs office management tasks that often require the use of a personal computer and communicates with patients and suppliers.
The first year Preparatory Programme and the second year Diploma Course will combine a sound theoretical basis with a broad range of clinical and management skills, central to the role of the dental assistant as a key part of the dental team. Upon completion, the Diploma Course will enable students to seek further studies or to direct employment.
The Faculty of Dental Surgery is offering this course of studies leading to a Diploma in Dental Surgery Assistance and is inviting applicants to be part of the dental team.
For course entry requirements visit http://www.um.edu.mt/ds/overview/UPRCDSAFT-2016-7-O, http://www.um.edu.mt/ds/overview/UDDSAFT-2017-8-O. Online applications are available via www.um.edu.mt/apply