Career opportunities
When you graduate with a Bachelor of Dental Technology (BDentTech) you’ve got a variety of career pathways ahead. Our Otago programme is the only one of its kind in New Zealand and leads to registration with the Dental Council of New Zealand as a dental technician.
Some possible careers include:
- Working as a dental technician in a commercial dental laboratory
- Specialising in fixed prosthetics (crowns, bridges) or removable prosthetics (dentures, orthodontic appliances)
- Setting up your own dental-tech business or working freelance
- Working with hospitals, community dental services, or for defence forces
- Roles in research, materials development or teaching
Crafting smiles with precision
Discover the hands-on world of Dental Technology – where creativity meets problem-solving. From crowns to dentures, learn how this dynamic field blends artistry, science, and teamwork to transform lives.
Read transcript
Why Dental Technology?
I like working with my hands quite a lot, and it’s very practical. You kind of understand more of the theory behind it when you actually sit down and do the work. At first, I thought I would just be sitting there, you know, creating a few teeth, making a denture, but it turns out there’s so much more you can do—so there have been a few surprises.
I get to play with flames every day. Basically, I chose Dental Technology because I like the idea of helping people, but also the problem-solving aspect of it—finding a solution to a particular person’s problem. It’s not as straightforward as just dentures and a few teeth; there are a lot of different things to do.
What do you like about Dental Technology?
The most enjoyable aspect for me, I think, is Crown and Bridge—actually getting to make something that is natural, yet prosthetic at the same time. We do have a little bit of theory, but it’s not like you’re sitting in front of a computer screen all day. You’re actually doing what your degree is about, which is cool.
What advice do you have for others considering Dental Technology?
The tutors and the teaching staff actually teach you everything you need to know, including how to work with your equipment when you get selected for the course. We work with dentists and other specialists to create the things we do, so you learn to communicate with other people and work well as a team.
If you’re really interested, go and find a lab in your hometown—there are actually a lot out there. I had no idea that Dental Technology existed when I was at high school, so look in the Yellow Pages, find somewhere, and just go and see what they do. That would really give you an insight into what you’re doing.
The industry is growing, and some labs are expanding at the moment—especially up in the North Island—so there are good job opportunities. You just have to search for them; they don’t necessarily come to you.
I love teeth. It’s just my life, and I guess it’s my place in the world.
How you will learn
At Otago you’ll get hands-on from early on – you’ll work in advanced workshops, labs and digital design studios where you’ll design and fabricate real dental appliances. You’ll collaborate with dentists, technicians and other dental health professionals, learning the full dental-care team perspective from day one.
You’ll also learn the underlying science – materials, anatomy of the mouth and teeth, biomechanics – so you understand why you do what you do, not just how. For example, you’ll study biomaterials and digital design in second and third year.
By mixing theory with great practical exposure you’ll build both confidence and competence as you prepare for a real-world career.
Recommended high school subjects for undergraduate study
You’ll do best in this programme if you have strong interest and skill in manual work, visualising in three dimensions, and some background in science, maths or technology. For entry directly from secondary school you’ll need at least 14 credits in each of two NCEA Level 3 approved subjects from science, mathematics or technology (or equivalent).
Choose a study option
Whether you're embarking on your academic journey with our comprehensive undergraduate programmes or aiming to reach new heights through our advanced postgraduate offerings, Otago is here to support your aspirations.
Undergraduate qualifications
For new and current students studying towards a Bachelor's or other first degree. Explore undergraduate qualifications at Otago, designed to build a strong foundation in your chosen field, preparing you for a successful career or further study.
Bachelor of Dental Technology (BDentTech)
A three-year degree that focuses on the technical side of dentistry and prepares you to register as a dental technician
Bachelor of Dental Technology with Honours (BDentTech(Hons))
An optional fourth year of study for high-achieving students who have completed the three-year Bachelor of Dental Technology (BDentTech) programme.
Further study opportunities
Whether you are looking to bridge your undergraduate studies to advanced knowledge or aiming to specialise in a specific field, Otago offers a range of graduate and postgraduate options to suit your aspirations.
Related subject areas
Explore all subject areasGet hands-on in workshops, labs and digital studios, mastering the tools and techniques that bring smiles back to life
We are home to the only Bachelor of Dental Technology programme in New Zealand.
Our Faculty of Dentistry is based on the Dunedin campus, giving you access to strong links with dental health professionals and specialist workshops right on campus.
Because we teach you both the technical craft and the scientific foundations, you’ll graduate with high-level skills that are recognised globally and valued here in New Zealand and overseas.
Plus, Dunedin offers a vibrant student city with plenty of support, community and an environment where you can grow your skills and connect with others who are passionate about dentistry and technology.
Programme details
Compare programmes for this subject.
| Year | Papers | Points |
|---|---|---|
| 1st year | DTEC 102 3D and Digital Removable Prosthetics 1 | 45 |
| DTEC 111 Fundamental Sciences for Dental Technology | 30 | |
| DTEC 113 3D and Digital Fixed Prosthetics 1 | 45 | |
| 2nd year | DTEC 201 Materials Science for Dental Technology | 20 |
| DTEC 202 3D and Digital Removable Prosthetics 2 | 50 | |
| DTEC 203 3D and Digital Fixed Prosthetics 2 | 50 | |
| 3rd year | DTEC 303 Professional Practice | 12 |
| DTEC 311 Applied Research for Dental Technology | 18 | |
| DTEC 312 Integrated 3D and Digital Prosthetics | 90 |
Papers
View a list of all related papers below.
DTEC papers
| Paper Code | Year | Title | Points | Teaching period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DTEC102 | 2026 | 3D and Digital Removable Prosthetics 1 | 45 points | Full Year |
| DTEC111 | 2026 | Fundamental Sciences for Dental Technology | 30 points | Full Year |
| DTEC113 | 2026 | 3D and Digital Fixed Prosthetics 1 | 45 points | Full Year |
| DTEC201 | 2026 | Materials Science for Dental Technology | 20 points | Full Year |
| DTEC202 | 2026 | 3D and Digital Removable Prosthetics 2 | 50 points | Full Year |
| DTEC203 | 2026 | 3D and Digital Fixed Prosthetics 2 | 50 points | Full Year |
| DTEC303 | 2026 | Professional Practice | 12 points | Full Year |
| DTEC311 | 2026 | Applied Research for Dental Technology | 18 points | Full Year |
| DTEC312 | 2026 | Integrated 3D and Digital Prosthetics | 90 points | Full Year |
| DTEC401 | 2026 | Denture Prosthodontics 1 | 45 points | Full Year |
| DTEC402 | 2026 | Denture Prosthodontics 2 | 45 points | Full Year |
| DTEC403 | 2026 | Dental Health | 30 points | Full Year |
| DTEC411 | 2026 | Dental Technology Research for Honours | 40 points | Full Year |
| DTEC412 | 2026 | Dental Technology Practice | 80 points | Full Year |
More information
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Regulations on this page are taken from the 2026 Calendar and supplementary material.
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