This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level required for this unit

Essential knowledge

The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively do the task outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit manage the task and manage contingencies in the context of the identified work role

This includes knowledge of

Applied oral anatomy

dentition arrangement of the teeth naming and coding of teeth

structures of the oral cavity hard and soft palate lateral and posterior borders of the oral cavity tongue and floor of the mouth

teeth form and function

Constructional faults that cause fractures of denture base including

absence of balanced occlusion

inadequate polymerisation times and temperatures

incorrect dough consistency when packing

incorrect positioning of upper posterior teeth

insufficient thickness of acrylic resin in the anterior palatal region of the denture

rapid cooling after processing

Constructional faults that cause broken teeth

Denture base materials

Infection control guidelines for the decontamination of dentures and appliances that have already been inserted into the mouth

Methods for modifying repairing and maintaining removable prostheses

Essential skills

It is critical that the candidate demonstrate the ability to

Consistently design and manufacture oral splints using a range of materials for a range of jaw relations and malocclusions

Consistently use a range of articulators

Consistently trim polish finish and evaluate oral splints for suitability for insertion in the mouth

Consistently comply with current infection control guidelines Australian Standards and legislative requirements as they relate to the dental technicians specific job role

Consistently comply with occupational health and safety policies and procedures as they relate to the dental technicians specific job role

In addition the candidate must be able to effectively do the task outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit manage the task and manage contingencies in the context of the identified work role

This includes the ability to

Consistently follow sequenced written instructions and manufacturer specifications for the preparation of materials

Select materials techniques and equipment to reline rebase repair and modify removable prostheses

Take into account opportunities to address waste minimisation environmental responsibility and sustainable practice issues including efficient use of power and other resources

Use safe work practices to minimise the risk of transmission of infection including

consistently following the procedure for washing and drying hands

consistently putting into practice clean techniques

consistently using personal protective equipment

consistently limiting contamination

consistently maintaining clean receiving and work areas

Use literacy skills to read and follow directions policies and procedures including

occupational health and safety policies and procedures

infection control policies and procedures

material safety data sheets

laboratory policies and procedures

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the Performance Criteria Required Skills and Knowledge the Range Statement and the Assessment Guidelines for this Training Package

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate this competency unit

The individual being assessed must provide evidence of specified essential knowledge as well as skills

Consistency of performance should be demonstrated over the required range of workplace situations

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Assessment should replicate workplace conditions as far as possible

Simulations may be used to represent workplace conditions as closely as possible

Where for reasons of safety access to equipment and resources and space assessment takes place away from the workplace simulations should be used to represent workplace conditions as closely as possible

Method of assessment

Evidence of essential knowledge and understanding may be provided by

traditional or online computerbased assessment

written assignmentsprojects

Case study and scenario as a basis for discussion of issues and strategies to contribute to best practice

Questioning

Staff andor client feedback

Supporting statement of supervisor

Authenticated evidence of relevant work experience andor formalinformal learning

Role play simulation

Access and equity considerations

All workers in the health industry should be aware of access and equity issues in relation to their own area of work

All workers should develop their ability to work in a culturally diverse environment

In recognition of particular health issues facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities workers should be aware of cultural historical and current issues impacting on health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

Assessors and trainers must take into account relevant access and equity issues in particular relating to factors impacting on health of Aboriginal andor Torres Strait Islander clients and communities

Standard precautions may include but are not limited to:

Decontamination of dentures and appliances may include but is not limited to:

Preparation of materials may include:

Modifications to a prothesis may include:

Evaluation of the finished prosthesis may include but is not limited to