NZ Dental Technician REX study plan

Map the complete-denture workflow from primary impression to insertion and list the technician's decision points at each stage

Compare denture base materials (heat-cured PMMA, injection-moulded, pour, light-cured) on dimensional stability, shrinkage and indications

Explain border moulding, posterior palatal seal and neutral zone concepts and how each affects retention and stability

Describe the components and design principles of a cobalt-chromium removable partial denture framework, including rests, clasps and major connectors

Set up anatomical and semi-anatomical posterior teeth for balanced occlusion and justify tooth selection for different ridge resorption patterns

Explain the principles of altered cast technique and when a corrected cast is indicated for free-end saddle RPDs

Identify common denture faults (processing errors, occlusal errors, warpage) and state the corrective laboratory action for each

Describe the reline, rebase and repair procedures and the material choices for each

Sequence the crown and bridge workflow from die preparation to glazing and list the critical control point at each step

Compare zirconia, lithium disilicate, feldspathic porcelain and metal-ceramic on strength, aesthetics, bonding and preparation requirements

Explain the function of a die spacer and the effect of spacer thickness on cement space and seating

Describe the design principles for a three-unit bridge including connector dimensions and pontic design options

Classify dental materials by function and state the key properties tested for each class

Explain polymerisation shrinkage, thermal expansion and water sorption and how each affects fit and longevity

Describe the composition, setting reaction and handling of gypsum products and identify the ISO types and their uses

Explain the chemistry of addition-cured silicones and polyether impression materials and the compatibility issues with stone and disinfection

Identify the permanent dentition by tooth number and describe the distinguishing morphological features of each tooth group

Describe the anatomy relevant to appliance design, including the occlusal plane, curve of Spee and eruption timing

Explain the purpose and construction of removable orthodontic appliances, including the Adams clasp, labial bow and bite plane

Describe the fabrication sequence for a fixed retainer and a clear aligner or thermoformed retainer, including model preparation and trimming

Apply standard precautions in the laboratory, including hand hygiene, PPE selection and sharps handling

Describe the decontamination pathway for impressions, prostheses and instruments arriving from clinical settings, and state the limits of each method

Explain the infection control requirements for the laboratory environment, including zoning, waste segregation and spill management

Identify laboratory hazards (silica dust, monomer vapour, acid etch, amalgam, noise) and state the control measure for each

Explain the scope of practice and supervision expectations for dental technicians within the New Zealand regulatory framework

Describe the principles of informed consent, privacy and record retention as they apply to laboratory work and patient information

Apply culturally safe practice when communicating with patients and clinicians, including Te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations and Māori health models

Identify the ethical responsibilities for competence, continuing professional development and reporting unsafe practice

Describe a laboratory quality-assurance cycle, including written prescriptions, traceability, remakes and complaint handling

Explain digital workflows from intraoral scan to CAD design to milling or printing, and state the accuracy considerations at each stage

Compare additive and subtractive manufacturing for a given indication and justify the choice

Plan a final revision schedule that revisits weak areas from weeks 1 to 7 and completes timed practice under exam conditions