Upskilling the next generation of dental technicians with digital technology

Upskilling the next generation of dental technicians with digital technology

RMIT has sharpened its approach to dental education with upgrades to its dental lab that embrace the future of digital dentistry.

A new wet mill machine to pioneer the creation of cutting-edge dental prosthetics has been installed at the City campus-based dental lab thanks to more than $100,000 in funding from the Victorian Government. 

The funding also supports the infrastructure to maintain the new equipment, facilities preparation for installation and staff training, and will help to enable the delivery of the  Diploma of Dental Technology and Advanced Diploma of Dental Prosthetics. 

The new wet mill machine sits alongside the University’s existing digital dentistry equipment, giving students the chance to use the latest technology that delivers dental treatment with the help of computer-aided tools.

08 August 2024

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RMIT team pictured next to new wet mill machine. The new machine will prepare students to work in modern dental laboratories and clinics.

Program Manager, Dental, Myotherapy and Massage, Laura Yeomans said this technology will help to future-proof the skills of RMIT’s dental students. 

“This equipment provides our students access to the latest digital tools in dentistry and allows them to get hands-on experience that will future-proof them for the workforce,” she said.

“They begin using the conventional analogue tools, before we integrate more digital tools and software. This allows them to thrive in the workforce.”

The advantages of the new wet mill machine in digital dentistry include: 

  • Enhanced precision and accuracy to ensure precise fits and optimal function for dental prosthetics.
  • Broader material compatibility including ceramics and glass-ceramics, commonly used in high-quality dental restorations.
  • Improved surface finish resulting in a smoother surface finish on milled restorations
  • Cooling and lubricating effects of the wet milling process extend the lifespan of the milling tools, leading to more cost-effective and efficient operation.
  • Real-world application experience for students to better preparing them for professional practice in modern dental laboratories and clinics.

Supporting disadvantaged communities 

RMIT is looking to incorporate this new technology and focus on dental technology and prosthetics into its existing partnership with Dental Health Services Victoria (DHSV). 

A long-standing partnership between RMIT and DHSV is helping to build a workforce of dental assistants and technicians, while serving the oral health needs of vulnerable clients.

The Royal Dental Hospital began operations in Melbourne’s Carlton in the early 2000s. RMIT and the University of Melbourne helped design technical spaces and have occupied dedicated areas within the building ever since.

Mish Eastman, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Vocational Education and Vice President, said this collaboration gives students a wide range of experiences. 

“Partnering with DHSV expands our students’ repertoire to give them a breadth of experience, beyond what they can learn with a local dentist,” she said.

“RMIT’s College of Vocational Education is constantly exploring new ways for our students to have industry-linked and ‘real world’ learning opportunities. 

“Translating knowledge and skills to real industry practice, makes sure our students graduate ready for the workforce.”

 

Story: Nick Adams

08 August 2024

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