Diploma In Dental Surgery Assistance in University of Malta, Malta

Diploma In Dental Surgery Assistance in University of Malta

The aim of this one-year course is to provide students with thorough theoretical knowledge, skills and competences associated with knowledgeable, caring and professional behavior, in a variety of health settings where the dental team operates. Students will further develop intellectually by receiving knowledge focused on general and oral health and disease. The theory supporting the various disciplines in dentistry will be discussed in detail. 

Eligibility to the Diploma course is through a) the successful completion of the Preparatory Course for Diploma in Dental Surgery Assistance or b) evidence of DSA qualifications, as outlined in detail below.
Successful candidates will follow a structured course based on their entry qualifications and as directed by the Board of Studies.

Candidates who will require clinical training will learn and consolidate their clinical skills by being exposed to a number of clinics under the remit of the various specialties, as well as in the dental laboratory. 

The Diploma course will enable the students to further refine their intellectual and clinical proficiency so as to allow them to seek direct employment or further studies, after completion of the course.

Course Objectives

The objectives of this course are to deliver the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge underpinning the practice of dental assistance. It is intended for candidates who are interested in advancing the standards of their vocation. More specifically the course will provide a sufficient body of knowledge to enable dental assistants to undertake their prescribed work with care, safety and responsibility and to recognize the full scope of their remit.

The course aims to:

1. Provide thorough knowledge and reflection to enable successful candidates to practice their vocation in a professional and accountable manner.
2. Provide a sound knowledge of oral and general health and disease.
3. Provide principles of public health and basic oral health education and prophylaxis techniques to patients.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the programme of study, the student will be able to:

1. Discuss ethical rights in a clinical and community based setting, using legal and ethically acceptable policies.
2. Ensure health and safety precautions of patients in clinical settings using clinically acceptable policies.
3. Assist as part of a dental team in clinical procedures associated with treatment of dental disease. 
4. Perform instrument/equipment sterilization techniques in an effective manner.
5. Report basic clinical data of patients in treatment records, as instructed by dental clinicians, by using clinically acceptable indices. 
6. Perform tasks in dental practice management, such as stock keeping and communication with patients.
7. Perform record keeping, as instructed by a dental clinician.

Course intended for

The course is intended for local and foreign students and for practicing dental surgery assistants who are interested in the furthering their knowledge in the dental profession. Students applying for this course should be capable of combining skills, understanding and professional values especially in clinical settings.

Career opportunites and access to further studies

Career opportunities exist within the private sector and in the government health services.

Students in possession of a Diploma in Dental Surgery Assistance (Second Class or better) will be able to progress to the Bachelor courses offered by the Faculty of Dental Surgery.