Dentist and dental services: career information
What is a dentist?
A dentist diagnoses and treats disease, injury and abnormalities of teeth and gums, and performs preventative and surgical procedures. Roles of dentists include:
- examining teeth and gums
- using X-rays cleaning teeth and cavities
- treating disease of roots and gums
- designing and fitting dentures and crowns
How do I become a dentist?
To be recognised as a qualified dentist you must complete a Bachelor of Science (Dentistry). This is a 4 year course available through UWA.
You can enrol in this course if you have completed Year 12 with TEE English, Physics, Chemistry and Maths.
You can also contact UWA to discuss alternative entry if you have not completed all required TEE subjects.
What is a dental assistant?
Tasks dental assistants perform include:
- preparing patients for procedures
- recording findings from oral exams
- cleaning and sterilising instruments
- processing, mounting and filing X-rays
How do I become a dental assistant?
- Certificate III Dental Assisting
- Certificate IV Dental Assisting
You can enrol in these courses through many providers including Great Southern and Central TAFE.
There are no requirements for enrolment at a Certificate III level.
What is a dental hygienist / therapist?
Tasks dental hygienists perform include:
- educating and counselling patients on dental health, plaque control and oral hygiene
- removing stains from teeth
- instructing patients on how to look after their teeth and mouth after operations
How do I become a dental hygienist / therapist?
To be a qualified dental hygienist you must complete an Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene.
This is a 2 year course available through Curtin University. You can enrol in this course once you have completed Year 12 or equivalent. Mature-aged applicants may apply through a STAT exam.
What pathways will enable me to enter dentistry professions?
Note: some certificate courses may take longer through traineeships
Additional information
The Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations provides programs, training and support for Indigenous students.
Curtin’s Gunada Centre for Aboriginal Studies located in Bentley, Perth can be contacted on (08) 9266 7091 or go to www.gunada.curtin.edu.au
UWA’s School of Indigenous Studies can be contacted on (08) 6488 1100 or go to www.sis.uwa.edu.au
TAFE WA course information is available by phoning (08) 9320 3777.
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