TAFE NSW is helping to train the next generation of Dental Assistants, as the dental health industry is projected to grow by 6.5% over the next few years.[1]

An ageing population and increased awareness of the importance of dental health among Australians has led to a spike in demand for dental services. Dentists and Hygienists will continue to require more Dental Assistants as they work with more and more patients.

TAFE NSW graduate Grace Gu decided to switch careers from accounting to dental assisting so she could spend more time with her family, after moving from China to Australia to build a better life. After completing a Certificate III in Dental Assisting at TAFE NSW Randwick, she now works as a Dental Assistant at Experteeth Dental Chatswood.

“I was working as an Accountant for 15 years in my home country of China, but when I moved to Australia, I realised I needed a change,” Ms Gu said.

“I decided to enrol in the Certificate III in Dental Assisting as it’s something I’ve always had an interest in. The course gave me the theoretical knowledge and practical experience I needed to land a job right after graduating, including how to sterilise equipment and assist with dental procedures and radiography.

“This job switch has been the best thing I’ve ever done – the work is engaging and rewarding, and it’s given me much-needed flexibility so I can spend more time with my kids. I’d strongly encourage others to take the plunge and pursue a career in something they’re passionate about – you never know where it could take you.”

TAFE NSW Health Services Team Leader Rogers Kumar said as NSW’s leading provider of vocational education and training, TAFE NSW is uniquely positioned to help meet growing skills demand, by arming students with in-demand dental assisting skills.

“More and more Australians are recognising how important good dental health and hygiene are to overall health, which has led to increased demand for dental services. It’s great to see students like Grace pursuing a career in the growing industry, and contributing to the quality of local oral health care," Mr Kumar said.

“Dental Assistants have an incredibly varied job – they prepare rooms for procedures, assist dentists with tests, and liaise with patients. Importantly, by studying at TAFE NSW, students gain the skills and confidence they need to hit the ground running and support patients of all ages in dental practices across our communities.” 

Media contact: Emma Hughes, Communications Specialist, 0409 618 291, emma.hughes51@tafensw.edu.au