The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Geriatric Dentistry (Dip Geriatric Dentistry) is a specialised qualification designed for dental professionals seeking to advance their expertise in the care of older adults. This course is tailored for experienced practitioners rather than fresh candidates, offering a valuable opportunity to enhance career prospects, deepen clinical knowledge, and fulfil Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements in this rapidly growing field.
Geriatric dentistry addresses the unique oral health challenges faced by ageing populations, including managing complex medical histories, polypharmacy, and age-related physiological changes. Learners will develop advanced skills in assessment, treatment planning, and the delivery of compassionate, patient-centred care to older adults. The diploma covers a wide range of topics including preventive care, restorative treatments, and ethical considerations specific to geriatric patients.
Centres offering this Level 6 Diploma must maintain high standards by employing competent and qualified staff with relevant experience in geriatric dentistry. Access to up-to-date clinical facilities, educational resources, and patient care environments is essential to ensure effective training and learner success.
By completing this advanced qualification, learners will be equipped to provide expert care to elderly patients, improve treatment outcomes, and contribute meaningfully to the multidisciplinary teams supporting this vulnerable population. The diploma is an essential step for dental professionals committed to expanding their skills and excelling in the specialised area of geriatric dentistry.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Geriatric Dentistry (Dip Geriatric Dentistry)
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Geriatric Dentistry (Dip Geriatric Dentistry) consists of a structured set of study units designed to provide learners with in-depth and comprehensive knowledge. The qualification includes a total of 1200 Total Qualification Time (TQT), 600 Guided Learning Hours (GLH), and awards 120 credits.
| Unit Ref# | Unit Title | Credits | GLH | TQT |
| QC27055- 1 | Foundations of Geriatric Dentistry | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC27055-2 | Clinical Assessment and Diagnosis in Older Adults | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC27055-3 | Management of Oral Diseases in the Elderly | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC27055-4 | Prosthetic and Restorative Care for Geriatric Patients | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC27055-5 | Multidisciplinary Approaches and Patient-Centred Care | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC27055-6 | Professional Practice, Ethics, and Clinical Governance in Geriatric Dentistry | 20 | 100 | 200 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Geriatric Dentistry (Dip Geriatric Dentistry)
To enrol in the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Geriatric Dentistry, applicants must meet specific entry criteria to ensure they are prepared for this advanced, specialised qualification. This course is designed for experienced dental professionals aiming to enhance their skills in geriatric care.
Minimum Age
- Learners must be at least 21 years old at the time of enrolment.
Educational Background
- Applicants should hold a recognised dental qualification such as a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS), or equivalent.
- Registration with a relevant dental regulatory authority is required.
Professional Experience
- A minimum of two years’ clinical experience in general dentistry or a related dental field is essential.
- Experience in caring for older patients or working in community/hospital settings is preferred.
Language Proficiency
- Learners must demonstrate proficiency in spoken and written English to effectively engage with course materials and assessments.
- Non-native English speakers may be required to provide evidence such as an IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent.
Commitment to Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
- Applicants should be committed to ongoing professional development and staying current with best practices in geriatric dentistry.
Access to Required Resources
- Learners must have access to appropriate clinical environments and equipment to complete practical components of the course.
- Availability of qualified supervisors or mentors with experience in geriatric dentistry is essential.
- Access to relevant educational materials and digital learning platforms is expected to support study and assessments.
Learning Outcomes:QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Geriatric Dentistry (Dip Geriatric Dentistry)
Foundations of Geriatric Dentistry
- Understand the demographic, biological, and social aspects of ageing
- Study oral health challenges specific to elderly populations
- Explore the principles and scope of geriatric dentistry practice
Clinical Assessment and Diagnosis in Older Adults
- Develop skills in comprehensive clinical assessment of elderly patients
- Learn to identify common oral conditions and systemic interactions
- Apply diagnostic techniques tailored to geriatric care
Management of Oral Diseases in the Elderly
- Understand treatment planning for caries, periodontal disease, and mucosal conditions in older adults
- Learn strategies to manage complex medical histories and polypharmacy effects
- Implement preventive and therapeutic interventions suitable for ageing patients
Prosthetic and Restorative Care for Geriatric Patients
- Gain expertise in designing and delivering prosthetic and restorative treatments for elderly patients
- Study materials, techniques, and adaptations for geriatric care
- Address challenges related to function, aesthetics, and patient comfort
Multidisciplinary Approaches and Patient-Centred Care
- Explore collaboration with medical, nursing, and social care professionals
- Develop communication and care planning skills for holistic patient management
- Emphasise ethical considerations and dignity in elder care
Professional Practice, Ethics, and Clinical Governance in Geriatric Dentistry
- Understand legal and ethical frameworks relevant to geriatric dentistry
- Maintain clinical governance, quality assurance, and record-keeping standards
- Promote continuous professional development and reflective practice
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Geriatric Dentistry is designed for experienced dental professionals who want to specialise in the oral healthcare needs of older adults. This course is ideal for practitioners seeking to enhance their clinical skills, expand their knowledge, and improve patient outcomes in geriatric dentistry.
It is particularly suited to:
- Registered dentists aiming to develop expertise in managing the unique oral health challenges faced by elderly patients
- Dental hygienists and therapists interested in specialising in geriatric care
- Dental practitioners working in community, hospital, or care home settings with ageing populations
- Professionals committed to continuous professional development (CPD) and advancing their careers in specialised dental fields
- Those with clinical experience seeking to deliver patient-centred, multidisciplinary care for older adults
This diploma is not intended for beginners but for professionals with a solid dental background who want to deepen their understanding and skills in geriatric dentistry.
Qualified and Experienced Staff
- Trainers and assessors must hold recognised qualifications in dentistry with expertise in geriatric care
- Staff should have relevant clinical experience in managing older patients
- Internal quality assurance personnel must be suitably qualified
Appropriate Facilities and Equipment
- Access to clinical settings equipped for geriatric dental treatments
- Availability of dental instruments and materials suitable for elderly patient care
- Facilities must comply with health and safety regulations relevant to dental practice
Comprehensive Learning Resources
- Provision of up-to-date theoretical materials, case studies, and practical guides related to geriatric dentistry
- Access to digital learning platforms to support study and assessments
- Suitable venues for practical workshops, seminars, and tutorials
Supervised Practical Training
- Opportunities for learners to gain hands-on experience in treating older adults under qualified supervision
- Access to mentoring by experienced geriatric dental professionals
Quality Assurance and Compliance
- Implementation of robust internal quality assurance processes to maintain high standards of delivery and assessment
- Adherence to ethical, legal, and professional standards governing dental care for elderly patients
Learner Support Services
- Provision of academic and pastoral support to assist learners throughout the course
- Systems for regular feedback and continuous improvement of the learner experience