The main objective was to improve the knowledge of graduates of dental technology, medical engineering and materials science faculties, as well as dental technicians without experience in digitalization, by creating and implementing a new curriculum adapted to current training needs in dental techniques. Specific objectives include: – Increasing professional skills in digitization and 3D printing – Modernizing educational methods for teaching staff using digital technologies – Developing a pilot program in dental technology with a modern, market-adapted curriculum – Certifying the new training program in dental engineering.
We applied for this project due to the clear gap between the fast technological evolution in dental engineering and the traditional methods used in practice by the dental technicians at European level, based on their formation. While CAD/CAM workflows, 3D printing, digital imaging and material engineering are transforming the current practice in dental technique laboratories, most dental technicians remain trained in classical methods. Needs assessments, market analysis, stakeholder consultations and alumni feedback highlighted specific needs: modernization of the curriculum for training, improved digital competences, stronger integration between engineering, especially materials engineering and medical engineering, with dental medicine, better use of modern education techniques, and alignment of training outcomes with labour market requirements. The dental technique and dental medicine approaches comes from the stakeholders form different countries. The project fully aligns with European priorities in digital transition, competence development, labour market relevance and educational innovation, ensuring that dental technicians can work easily with advanced technologies and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving area.