Diploma Program

Denturist Diploma Program Description

Students are trained within the guidelines of the Denturist’s scope of practice. This includes: treatment planning, design, fabrication and fitting of complete, partial, immediate and implant-supported and retained dentures. Curriculum topics also include the study of mouth guards, anti-snoring devices, teeth whitening and implants. The program consists of a challenging curriculum including academic, clinical and “hands-on” laboratory skills. The students will study science, dental sciences, health promotion and Denturist practice management. All areas of study will observe the International Baseline Competencies Profile for Denturist Education, The Canadian Denturist Competencies and Learning Outcomes, United Kingdom General Dental Council Preparing for Practice Learning Outcomes, and Oregon Board of Dental Technology Denture Technology Curriculum Objectives. Graduates of this program must successfully complete the written and practical licensing examinations in the jurisdiction where they intend to practice to be eligible to practice as a Denturist in states or countries where the Diploma is recognized. In unregulated states, graduates have increased knowledge and skill in the denture technology field.

Program Outcomes

• Integrate principles of biomedical and social sciences, professional ethics, and clinical decision-making frameworks to support safe, evidence-based practice in denturism.

• Apply theoretical foundations, materials, and design principles by evaluating the fabrication, fitting, and adjustment of dental prosthetics, including removable and implant-supported/retained prostheses.

• Deliver comprehensive clinical and laboratory care by constructing, adjusting, and maintaining prosthetic devices, developing individualized treatment plans, and collaborating effectively with dental professionals.

• Demonstrate effective communication skills through patient consultation, education, and follow-up care, while upholding ethical standards, ensuring patient safety, and promoting lifelong oral health.

Denturist Diploma Program Timelines

The Denturist Diploma Program is a three-year program. Students must complete the program within 150% of the program length, not to exceed 4.5 years. The externship must be completed within 1 year of acceptance of your Externship Documents and enrollment into the externship, normally at the completion of the didactic portion of the program. Students can accelerate the program as long as prerequisites are met for the courses and they remain in good academic standing.

The Denturist Diploma Program is comprised of 122 quarter credit hours (3660 clock hours) of distance education and 16 quarter credit hours (400 clock hours) of Managed Clinical Experience. The program is designed to take three years to complete.

If an ADC course is discontinued, the ADC guarantees that all students enrolled in the course will be allowed to complete their instruction.