Major: Dental Prosthesis Technology (Diş Protez Teknolojisi)
Program Overview
A hands-on, technical program that trains students to design, fabricate, and repair dental prostheses (crowns, bridges, dentures, implants). Combines dental anatomy, materials science, CAD/CAM technology, and lab techniques to prepare graduates for careers as dental technicians, CAD/CAM specialists, and dental lab managers in dental clinics, labs, and hospitals.
Key Learning Objectives
- Master dental anatomy and occlusion.
- Learn impression taking and model casting.
- Gain expertise in fabricating crowns, bridges, and dentures.
- Develop skills in CAD/CAM and 3D printing for dental prosthetics.
- Understand dental materials (ceramics, metals, composites).
- Explore digital dentistry and intraoral scanning.
- Apply quality control and infection control standards.
Core Courses
- Dental Anatomy and Occlusion
- Tooth morphology, bite alignment, and jaw relations.
- Dental Materials Science
- Metals, ceramics, acrylics, and composites.
- Fixed Prosthodontics (Crowns & Bridges)
- Waxing, casting, and porcelain fusion.
- Removable Prosthodontics (Dentures)
- Partial/complete denture design and fabrication.
- Dental CAD/CAM Technology
- Digital scanning, design (e.g., 3Shape, Exocad), and milling.
- Implant-Supported Prostheses
- Abutments, screw-retained crowns, and hybrid dentures.
- Orthodontic Appliances
- Retainers, expanders, and clear aligners.
- Dental Lab Management
- Workflow optimization, quality assurance, and infection control.
- Clinical Practicum
- Hands-on training in dental labs or clinics.
- Capstone Project
- Fabricate a complex dental prosthesis (e.g., implant-supported bridge).
Assessment Methods
- Dental model and prosthesis fabrication projects
- CAD/CAM design and 3D printing assignments
- Materials science and quality control tests
- Infection control and lab safety evaluations
- Capstone project presentations
Tools & Resources
- Equipment: Dental lathes, casting machines, 3D scanners, milling machines
- Software: 3Shape, Exocad, Dental Wings, Autodesk Fusion 360
- Books:
- Dental Laboratory Technology: A Step-by-Step Approach by Tony Johnson
- Contemporary Fixed Prosthodontics by Rosenstiel
- CAD/CAM in Dentistry by I. Denry
Prerequisites
- Interest in dental technology, precision craftsmanship, or healthcare.
- Fine motor skills and attention to detail required.
Program Duration
- 2–3 years (associate degree), including lab practicum.
Certifications (Optional/Required)
- Certified Dental Technician (CDT) (Turkish or international)
- CAD/CAM Dental Technology Certification
Career Paths
- Dental Technician (dental labs, clinics)
- CAD/CAM Specialist (digital dentistry labs)
- Dental Lab Manager (supervision, quality control)
- Orthodontic Appliance Technician (braces, aligners)
- Implant Prosthesis Technician (surgical guides, abutments)
- Dental Sales Representative (materials, equipment)
- Educator/Trainer (dental schools, workshops)
Why This Major?
Turkey’s growing dental industry and advancements in digital dentistry create high demand for skilled dental technicians. This program provides hands-on training in traditional and digital prosthetics, preparing graduates for stable, detail-oriented careers in a high-precision, evolving field. Ideal for those passionate about dental technology, craftsmanship, and patient care.
