About the profession of maxillofacial prosthetist and technologist (MPT)

'A titanium skull cap for implanting after surgery'

The role of the maxillofacial prosthetist and technologist (MPT) has grown from the 'emergency' one of the past 60 years. Today we are important members of the specialist Head and Neck team.

'Wiring up an orthodontic appliance'

'Adding acrylic to the appliance'

The modern MPT is a technical and clinical specialist, fabricating devices and then fitting them in either the maxillofacial prosthetic clinic or alongside surgical colleagues in the operating theatre.

The role involves extensive professional autonomy because there is a high degree of patient contact and clinical responsibility.

Where do MPTs work?
In 2002, there are approximately 175 MPTs in the UK. About 40 of whom are trainees or at an Associate level. They work in 90 recognised maxillofacial units.

What are the conditions of service?
MPTs are employed by the NHS in line with Medical Technical Officer MTO, clinical scientists or medical laboratory scientific officer (MLSO) salary scales and conditions of service. There is usually an on-call emergency commitment to cover a clinical service 24 hours a day 7 days a week. MPTs are often required to cover two or three clinical sites that receive casualties with maxillofacial injuries.

History of the profession
During and immediately after World War 1, a large number of casualties who had maxillofacial injuries required treatment to repair damaged jaws and faces. This work was undertaken by specialist surgeons who had dual qualifications in dentistry and medicine. These surgeons were supported by specialist surgical technicians, who fabricated complex splints, implants and rehabilitative prosthetic devices.

'A prosthetic ear and its cast'

'A prosthetic eye and its cast'

'A prosthetic nose and its cast'

How do I become a dental technician?

Entry Route A

• GCSEs and/or work experience, take up a post as dental technician trainee with on job and day release training course.

Entry Route B

• ‘A’ levels or equivalent to gain access to higher education

• A degree course in Dental Technology, 3 or 4 years.

• Register with the Institute of Dental Technicians

Entry Route C

• A related first degree + appropriate post-graduate training

At Addenbrooke's:

• To find out more contact Renny Talbot on 01223 216 636

Further information can be found on:

• NHS Careers, Tel: 0845 60 60 65, www.nhscareers.nhs.uk

• Universities and Colleges Admissions Service, Tel: 01242 227 788, www.ucas.ac.uk

• Dental Technicians Education & Training Advisory Board, Tel: 01280 702 600, www.dtetab.co.uk