The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Pediatric Dentistry (Dip Pediatric Dentistry) is a specialised qualification designed for dental professionals seeking to advance their expertise in the dental care of children and young patients. This diploma is not intended for newly qualified dentists but is tailored to experienced practitioners who want to deepen their clinical skills, expand their knowledge, and enhance their career prospects within this vital area of dentistry.
This comprehensive course covers essential topics such as child development, behaviour management, paediatric restorative techniques, and preventive care, equipping learners with the confidence and competence needed to provide high-quality dental treatment for young patients. It also supports learners’ commitment to Continuing Professional Development (CPD) by offering a structured, evidence-based pathway for ongoing learning and professional growth.
Centres delivering the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Pediatric Dentistry are required to maintain the highest standards. They must have competent and qualified teaching staff with relevant clinical experience in paediatric dentistry. Furthermore, these centres must provide access to up-to-date learning materials, clinical equipment, and resources to ensure learners receive a robust and engaging educational experience.
By completing this diploma, learners will not only enhance their clinical practice but also demonstrate a recognised qualification that reflects their dedication to excellence in paediatric dental care, positioning them for future professional opportunities.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Pediatric Dentistry (Dip Pediatric Dentistry)
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Pediatric Dentistry (Dip Pediatric 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 |
QC27047 – 1 | Child Growth and Development for Dental Practitioners | 20 | 100 | 200 |
QC27047 – 2 | Diagnosis, Assessment and Treatment Planning in Pediatric Dentistry | 20 | 100 | 200 |
QC27047 – 3 | Behaviour Management and Communication in Pediatric Dentistry | 20 | 100 | 200 |
QC27047 – 4 | Paediatric Restorative and Preventive Dentistry | 20 | 100 | 200 |
QC27047 – 5 | Management of Dental Trauma and Special Needs Patients | 20 | 100 | 200 |
QC27047- 6 | Professional Practice, Ethics, and Clinical Governance in Pediatric Dentistry | 20 | 100 | 200 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Pediatric Dentistry (Dip Pediatric Dentistry)
To enrol in the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Pediatric Dentistry, learners must meet the following entry criteria to ensure readiness for the academic and clinical demands of the course:
Minimum Age
- Applicants must be at least 21 years old at the time of enrolment.
Educational Background
- A recognised undergraduate dental degree (such as BDS, DDS, or equivalent) is essential.
- The qualification must be valid and recognised within the learner’s country of practice.
Professional Experience
- Learners should have a minimum of one year of clinical experience post-qualification, preferably with some exposure to paediatric dentistry.
- Applicants must be actively practising in a clinical dental environment.
Language Proficiency
- Since the course is delivered in English, learners must demonstrate adequate English language proficiency, evidenced by one of the following:
- IELTS score of 6.5 or above (with no individual band below 6.0)
- TOEFL iBT score of 90 or above
- Evidence of previous education or professional training conducted in English (subject to approval)
Commitment to Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
- Applicants must demonstrate a clear commitment to ongoing CPD, showing recent participation in professional development activities.
Access to Required Resources
- Learners must have access to:
- A clinical setting suitable for paediatric dental case management
- Appropriate dental instruments and materials for paediatric treatment
- Reliable internet access and a device to participate in online learning and access digital resources
- Access to diagnostic tools such as radiographs and patient records essential for clinical decision-making
Learning Outcomes:QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Pediatric Dentistry (Dip Pediatric Dentistry)
Child Growth and Development for Dental Practitioners
- Understand the stages of child physical, cognitive, and emotional development relevant to dental care
- Recognise how growth and development impact oral health and treatment needs
- Apply developmental knowledge to tailor dental care for different age groups
- Identify common developmental disorders that affect paediatric dental management
Diagnosis, Assessment and Treatment Planning in Pediatric Dentistry
- Conduct comprehensive clinical assessments specific to paediatric patients
- Interpret diagnostic tools including radiographs and clinical findings for children
- Develop evidence-based, individualised treatment plans suitable for paediatric dental care
- Communicate treatment options effectively to patients and their caregivers
Behaviour Management and Communication in Pediatric Dentistry
- Employ effective behaviour management techniques for different age groups and special needs children
- Use communication strategies that build trust and cooperation with young patients and their families
- Recognise and manage dental anxiety and phobias in children
- Adapt approaches to meet the psychological and emotional needs of paediatric patients
Paediatric Restorative and Preventive Dentistry
- Understand restorative materials and techniques suited for paediatric patients
- Implement preventive strategies to reduce dental caries and other oral diseases in children
- Perform clinical procedures that promote oral health and maintain primary and permanent dentition
- Evaluate outcomes of restorative and preventive treatments in paediatric dentistry
Management of Dental Trauma and Special Needs Patients
- Identify types and severity of dental trauma commonly seen in children
- Apply appropriate emergency and follow-up management for dental injuries
- Understand the unique dental needs of patients with special health care requirements
- Develop care plans that accommodate the physical, medical, and behavioural challenges of special needs patients
Professional Practice, Ethics, and Clinical Governance in Pediatric Dentistry
- Apply ethical principles and professional standards in paediatric dental practice
- Understand the legal responsibilities and safeguarding requirements related to child patients
- Engage in reflective practice and continuous professional development
- Participate in clinical governance activities to ensure safe, effective, and high-quality paediatric dental care
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Pediatric Dentistry is designed for dental professionals who want to specialise or enhance their expertise in the dental care of children and young patients. This course is ideal for:
- Qualified dentists seeking advanced knowledge and clinical skills in paediatric dentistry.
- Practising dental professionals aiming to improve their treatment planning and behaviour management techniques for children.
- Dentists committed to Continuing Professional Development (CPD) who wish to gain a recognised qualification to support their career progression.
- Clinicians preparing to work in multidisciplinary teams or specialist paediatric dental settings.
- Dental practitioners with some clinical experience looking to expand their scope of practice to include paediatric restorative, preventive, and trauma management.
This qualification is not suited for newly qualified dentists but is intended for those with foundational clinical experience ready to develop specialised competence in paediatric dentistry.
Centre Requirements
- Accreditation and Approval
- Must be an approved QualCert centre authorised to deliver Level 6 qualifications.
- Comply with all relevant regulatory and awarding body standards.
- Qualified and Experienced Staff
- Employ tutors and assessors with appropriate Level 7 or equivalent qualifications in dentistry or paediatric dentistry.
- Ensure staff have current clinical registration and practical experience in paediatric dentistry.
- Provide access to internal and external quality assurance personnel.
- Facilities and Equipment
- Maintain a safe, professional clinical environment suitable for paediatric dental training.
- Provide access to up-to-date dental equipment, instruments, and simulation models specific to paediatric dentistry.
- Ensure availability of IT and multimedia resources to support blended or online learning.
- Learning Resources
- Supply comprehensive course materials including textbooks, journals, and digital content.
- Offer case studies, treatment planning tools, and access to diagnostic imaging relevant to paediatric dentistry.
- Assessment and Quality Assurance
- Implement robust systems for assessment, feedback, internal verification, and record-keeping.
- Participate in external quality assurance visits and audits as required.
- Learner Support
- Provide academic and pastoral support tailored to learner needs.
- Ensure reasonable adjustments and accessibility in line with equality and diversity policies.
- Health and Safety Compliance
- Adhere to all health, safety, and infection control standards applicable to clinical dental training.
- Conduct regular risk assessments of clinical and practical sessions.
- Continuous Improvement
- Commit to ongoing professional development for teaching staff.
- Use learner feedback and performance data to improve course delivery and learner outcomes.