FREE
STUDENT MEMBERSHIP
We are offering free membership to those currently studying to qualify as a dental technician. This new initiative is designed to support the next generation of dental technologists as they develop their skills, knowledge, and professional pathways.
Being a member of The Dental Technologists Association (DTA) comes with a wealth of benefits. From a wide range of learning and professional development opportunities to exclusive discounts on leading industry brands, membership supports you at every stage of your career.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
What job could you have in the future?
Commercial dental laboratories
These laboratories are where most dental technicians work, either as employees or, with experience, running their own businesses. The laboratories, which range from single-handed organisations through to large companies, receive prescriptions from dentists and carry out the work required. They also repair or modify appliances. A large laboratory deals with a wide variety of work and may offer the opportunity to specialise.
Hospitals
Hospital dental departments may employ specialist technicians to make maxillofacial appliances and other dental appliances. In the NHS there is a clear career structure relating to qualifications, responsibility and competence.
General practice
A few large private dental practices employ their own dental technician to carry out work on the premises, though most practices use commercial laboratories. In a practice, the dental technician would deal with quite a wide range of work, often specialising to meet the needs of the particular practice.
Further Qualifications
With further qualification and experience, dental technicians can progress to a clinical dental technician and be able to provide services direct to patients. An important part of the role is to check on the patient's general dental welfare.
The DTA jobs board is a perfect place for if you are in search of employment. It is regularly updated with available positions all around the country.
PROSPECTS AND PAY
Dental technicians working within the NHS earn from around £28,400 when first qualified, but it's possible for pay to rise to almost £50,100 with experience and advanced skills (2023/24 rates in England). Salaries for staff working in the private sector vary depending on the employer; the starting salary may not be quite as much compared to the NHS starting salary but those who are highly skilled can earn up to £60,000+. The income of self-employed dental technicians will depend on the success of their business.
DTA REWARDS
& TOTUM BENEFITS
DTA Rewards provides access to a range of discounts from recognised brands, helping students manage day-to-day expenses more easily. It includes offers across categories such as essentials, technology, clothing, and entertainment, giving members practical ways to reduce costs throughout their studies.
We have also partnered with TOTUM to bring our members even more deals. Their memberships provide access to hundreds of offers - online and instore, as well additional benefits such as PASS proof of age ID, TOTUM Cashback, and global ID Global ID & discounts with ISIC.
SUPPORT FROM
THE DTA
- Our printed publication The Technologist includes technical articles to support your learning.
- Webinars of manufacturing techniques and information related to digital dental technology
- We explain what is expected of you by the GDC when you qualify as a Dental Technician and provide you with the tools to meet these requirements.
- Student membership of the DTA is only £10 per year. Then, once you qualify, your membership remains discounted for your first three years before you pay the full membership fee currently £125. Year 1 £25, Year 2 £50, Year 3 £75.
Our
values
WHO ARE DENTAL TECHNOLOGISTS?
If you're looking for more information on the type of work dental technologists do, skills required and routes to becoming a dental technologist please visit our Dental Technology and Education and training pages.