Spread Smiles. Brighten Lives!

Program Overview

Join the 2.5 Year Denturism Program at Oxford College.

Offered exclusively at the Toronto Campus.

A radiant smile can make anyone feel confident. If you enjoy spreading smiles and are an enthusiast for polished and perfect-looking teeth, a rewarding career as a Denturist awaits you.

As a Denturist, you would:

• Assess a client’s mouth and take an impression of their teeth and gums
• Design and construct complete, partial & implant-supported dentures
• Insert & fit new dentures
• Reline, rebase, and adjust dentures
• Fabricate mouth guards and bleaching trays
• And more

More information about the Denturism program can be found in this free PDF!

Accredited by EQual Canada

Key Denturism Career Benefits

Denturism is one of the most unique and highly skilled healthcare professions in North America. And Oxford College is one of the only five career colleges in Canada that offers this program. The unique Denturism program will give you a competitive advantage and equip you with the theoretical, technical, and clinical skills required to work as an independent oral healthcare professional.

You will be trained to perform a variety of intra-oral procedures in relation to the design, construction, and repair of removable dentures.

Message from the Program Coordinator

Train in a Fully-Equipped Dental Laboratory

The fully-equipped dental laboratory will provide you with the chance to learn in facilities that are similar to what you will encounter when you enter the working world. Training with actual equipment means you will already have bridged any potential knowledge gap when you pursue work as a Denturist. You’ll be familiar with the equipment and procedures, and that confidence will be apparent to your employer, coworkers, and clients.

Get Certified and Become More Employable

Oxford College’s Denturism Program is recognized by the College of Denturists of Ontario (CDO), and the curriculum emphasizes laboratory expertise and treatment planning.

Upon successful completion of the Denturism program, you will be eligible to write the provincial licensing examination with the CDO, which students must enroll for upon graduation.

Successful completion of the program and the provincial licensing exam will permit students to register with the CDO, in order to practice Denturism in Ontario.

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Flexible Program Options

Wish to start a new career but have conflicting priorities?
Don’t worry, you’ve come to the right place.

At Oxford College, we provide flexible class schedules; including morning, afternoon, and evening sessions at select campuses (subject to availability). Our hybrid learning approach combines online theory classes with in-person practical sessions. Plus, with our state-of-the-art Learning Management System, you can access course materials, submit assignments, and review protocols anytime, anywhere, making learning convenient and accessible.

For more information about Oxford College’s flexible program options, inquire today!

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Admission Requirements

OSSD or Equivalent

OR

Mature Student Status with Wonderlic SLE – 19

AND

– Grade 12 English (C or U) or Equivalent AND

– Grade 11 Math (M or U) or Grade 11 Physics (U) or Grade 11 Chemistry (U) or Equivalent AND

– Grade 11 Biology (C or U) or Equivalent

AND

– Minimum grade of 6.0 in the verbal component and a score of 7.0 or higher on the written component in the Oxford College English Assessment.

Clinic Requirements

The documents below must be submitted within 60 days of enrollment
Completed Immunization Verification Report
AND
Clear Canadian Police Information Center (CPIC) Report

International Students

International students must meet all the admission requirements. In order to work as a Denturist in Ontario, students must be a Canadian citizen or have permanent status. For more information, students should visit the CDO website regarding registration as a Denturist.

https://denturists-cdo.com/

Demands of Profession

The Denturism program is a 132-week course of study which is delivered in an intensive format: this requires diligent studying and proper time management. Students should expect to dedicate a minimum of 15 hours of study per week outside of the scheduled classes, and may be required to come on-campus for extra lab hours as needed for the completion of projects. Clinical hours may extend into the evenings and weekends.

Due to the physical demands of the profession, students will be required to sit for long periods of time in lab (~8 hours) and stand for long periods of time (~8 hours) in the clinic in any given day. Breaks are provided during these time periods.

Students will also be required to work with tools and small materials which will require manual dexterity and good vision with or without corrective lenses.

In the final year of the program, students are expected to find their own patients to complete the requirements for the clinical component.

2024 – 2025 Fees (CAD)

Program Outcomes

Upon the completion of Denturism program at Oxford College, it is expected that Denturism students will be able to:

• Maintain professional, ethical practice adhering to the Code of Ethics, and the College of Denturist of Ontario Standards of Practice, while maintaining accountability to those served.
• Communicate effectively in verbal, non-verbal, written and electronic communication to provide accurate and appropriate information regarding oral health.
• Coordinate and collaborate inter-professionally and intra-professionally to promote the health and wellbeing of patients.
• Demonstrate critical thinking by incorporating evidence-based practice in all aspects of the Denturism scope of practice.
• Provide competent Denturism services to enable patients to achieve optimal oral health that contributes to overall health.
• Gather, assess and document patient’s oral health status in order to determine the appropriateness of a requested service and to develop a treatment plan in collaboration with the patient.
• Manage risks and ensure the safety of patient and staff by complying with IPAC (infection prevention and control) and occupational health and safety legislation guidelines and Standards of Practice.
• Demonstrate a commitment to continuing professional development.
• Apply health promotion theory to empower patients to improve their oral and general health through the provision of educational, preventative, and therapeutic services.
• Use appropriate patient record and financial management practices, and manage human resource activities in accordance with legislation, regulatory requirements, Standards of Practice, and guidelines.

Areas of Focus

• Complete Dentures
• Partial Dentures
• Implant Retained Overdentures
• General and Dental Anatomy
• Digital Dentures
• Pathophysiology and Pharmacology
• Oral Pathology
• Infection Prevention and Control
• Dental Materials
• Radiology
• Denturism Practice Management
• Ethics and Professionalism
• Communication Skills
• Business Planning

Job Profile

A Denturist is a dental healthcare professional who provides denture care directly to the public. A Denturist is an independent self-regulated professional who works in collaboration with other oral healthcare providers, including Dentists, Dental Hygienists, Dental Technicians, and Oral Surgeons to provide denture care and services to patients. Denturists may be self-employed and work in their own business, or they may work in clinics of dental healthcare professionals.

Denturists may be self-employed or practice in the following settings:

• Private Practice
• Denture Clinics
• Dental Clinics
• Dental Laboratories
• Community Health Centers
• Hospitals
• Education Institutions

Students may view the employment outlook of the Denturism profession, as published by the Job Bank of Canada, by visiting the following website below.

https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/marketreport/outlook-occupation/4332/ON

Main Duties

Denturists provide removable dentures directly to a patient. In providing their services, Denturists undertake the following responsibilities:

• Obtain the complete medical and dental history of a patient
• Perform a complete visual oral examination and evaluation of a patient
• Design a comprehensive treatment plan
• Take impressions of the patient’s oral cavity
• Take necessary jaw relation records and select the artificial teeth
• Design and fabricate the dentures
• Deliver complete dentures, partial dentures, and implant overdentures to patients
• Perform adjunctive services such as repairs, relines and adjustments of removable dentures.

Course List

Graduation Requirements

In order for student to successfully complete the Denturism program, students must meet the following requirements:

➢ Obtain a passing grade (60%) in all theory modules.
➢ Obtain a passing grade (70%) in all practical modules.
➢ Maintain a cumulative average of 70%.

Additional requirements to pass specific modules apply. Information regarding modulespecific requirements are outlined in the Oxford College Denturism Student Handbook.

Course Information

SSOR 101 – Student Success Strategies

This college orientation course focuses on three key elements. Students will be introduced to Oxford’s online student resources; learn self-awareness through motivation, life stages, values, skills, personalities and interests; and discuss and apply concepts of stress management.

BABC 101 – Effective Communications

Good written and oral communication skills along with strong analytical skills are essential for anyone wishing to succeed in today’s technologically enhanced workplace. This module builds on grammar and mechanics skills to help you learn to effectively communicate in the business world. Topics include a review of the basic elements of business writing, recognizing grammatical errors, and creating common written business communications. Through critical thinking, an understanding of how problems can be solved will be transferred to the report writing and oral communication components of the course. As students advance in their career, the ability to produce a well-documented, complete and concise report becomes increasingly important. Finally, the ability to speak confidently about a variety of topics to various group sizes is of crucial importance. This course will allow students to further develop effective oral presentation skills which will be invaluable in a student’s career development.

RIOX 017 – Complete, Over & Immediate Denture Theory

This Course introduces basic and intermediate techniques in compete denture construction and the clinical procedures from the consultation to the final delivery of the denture and follow-up appointment. Mandibular movement, various types of occlusal set-ups will be discussed. Students are introduced to materials needed to fabricate complete dentures in the clinic and laboratory and are shown the proper usage of these materials in a laboratory setting. Upon completion, students will be able to understand the process in the construction of complete oral prostheses utilizing proper laboratory and clinical techniques.

DAH 002 – Orofacial & Dental Anatomy

As a denturist student, it is imperative to be familiar with normal makeup and structural components of the head and neck and more specifically on the structures that make up the oral cavity. At the end of this course the student will be able to identify and describe structures of the head and neck as well as indicate the function of the various structures. They will be able to describe the teeth, their morphology and how it relates to function in the oral cavity.

GDH 003 – Histology & Embryology

Students will progress through a basic course in embryology and dental histology. Dental histology includes the descriptive embryological principles that govern the formation of the face, neck, oral cavity, and including the dental structures. At the end of this course, students will understand prenatal development in regards to the face, neck, and orofacial structures as well as tooth development and eruption. They will be able to describe the various cells and what tissues are derived from them.

MIC 003 – Microbiology & Infection Control

This module will include relevance of microbiology to the health profession and all parts and processes of living organisms. Basic life chemistry, physiology, microbial pathology and growth will be discussed. There will be discussion of human defenses against infectious diseases, immunologic pathogenesis, oral bacteria/dental caries and periodontal diseases. At the end of this course the student will understand the role of microbes as they relate to oral and overall health. Students will also have a solid foundation in the prevention of disease transmission, disinfection and sterilization techniques.

DMS 015 – Dental Materials

The goal of this course is to acquaint the denturist student with the composition, properties, and manipulation of dental materials with a primary emphasis on those materials used in the dental office and a secondary emphasis on selected materials used in the dental laboratory. Lectures and reading assignments will provide a basic understanding of dental materials used in the dental office and an overview of selected materials used in clinical practice and to communicate on the use of materials with the dentist, dental technician, and patient. This course also provides a scientific background for the selection and use of dental materials. Students will apply their knowledge and skills of health and safety, including Occupational Health & Safety requirements and WHMIS requirements, within the clinical and laboratory settings.

GAPX 001 – General Anatomy & Physiology

This module will include animal cell structure and function, cell chemistry, cell division, metabolism, tissues, skeletal system, muscle system, and nervous system. The module will also cover the essential facts of human anatomy and physiology of the digestive system, cardiovascular system, respiratory system, urinary system, endocrine, and reproductive systems. By the end of this course, the student will have a solid foundation of the anatomy of the human body, its systems and human physiology.

PCP 012 – Pre-Clinical Prosthodontics

This course introduces the student to the various aspects involved in denture fabrication. This course will give the student a thorough knowledge about the safe and correct use of dental laboratory equipment and instruments as well as the whole spectrum of materials used in the construction of complete dentures. This course also introduces the student to the various techniques and laboratory procedures used in the fabrication of complete dentures, their repair, reline and the various clinical procedures involved. It also helps to create a basic understanding of prosthetics from the points of interest of a denturist and to prepare the students to be competent enough to learn advanced techniques used in Denturism.

RPD 015 – Removable Partial Dentures

This course is designed to introduce the students to the technical aspects involved in the fabrication of a Removable Partial Denture including the impression taking procedures, treatment planning, surveying of master casts for designing appropriate frameworks and the designing of clasps for removable partial dentures. In addition fabrication and delivery of acrylic partial dentures, the design and fabrication of cast partial dentures, selection and arrangement of artificial teeth, finishing and polishing removable partial dentures, repair and other adjustment to be made to suit the needs of the patient will be discussed. This course also emphasizes the importance of infection control procedures and occupational health and safety.

PGY 006 – Pathophysiology & Pharmacology

This course is designed to familiarize the denturist student with the major groups of drugs used in dental practice and to understand the drugs used to treat various medical conditions. At the end of this course the student will be familiar with the major drugs groups, understand how the use of drugs can affect the oral cavity, the patient’s overall health and how this impacts dental care.

OPH 005 – Oral Pathology

This course provides a general knowledge of oral pathological manifestations associated with selected systemic and oral diseases. Topics include developmental and degenerative diseases, selected microbial diseases, specific and nonspecific immune and inflammatory responses with emphasis on recognizing abnormalities. At the end of this course, the student will have the ability to differentiate between normal and abnormal tissues and refer unusual findings to the dentist for diagnosis. The purpose of this course is to provide the denturist student a broad understanding of the general principles of pathology and to relate these principles to the specific diseases that affect oral hard and soft tissue

DBMC 100 – Dental Biomechanics

This course covers diverse topics of biomechanics relating to dentistry including the form and function of the jaws, mechanics of bone tissue, the dynamics of occlusal relationship, the connective tissue response to mechanical stimulation, the effects of function on the growth and development of the Temporomandibular joint, the relationship between growth, function and stress in the Temporomandibular joint. At the end of this course, the student will have a solid foundation of the structure and function of the temporomandibular joint and how it applies to the fabrication of prostheses.

RAD 008 – Radiology

The purpose of this course is to introduce the denturist student to the basic radiological principles of intra-oral imaging for dento-alveolar structures. The radiographic examination plays an integral role in the diagnostic process in dentistry in conjunction with the clinical examination. The denturist must be proficient with intra-oral techniques and the ability to interpret radiographs to fulfill their roles as dental health care providers. Students are taught to always abide to their scope of practice within their jurisdiction.

PDO 004 – Periodontology

This course offers detailed information in relation to the normal and diseased periodontium including the structural, functional and environmental components. Emphasis on etiology, pathology, treatment modalities, and therapeutic and preventive periodontics in a contemporary practice setting. At the end of this course, students will have an understanding of the teeth and their supporting structures. They will be able to discuss risk factors for periodontal disease, the different categories of periodontal disease as well as various procedures and therapies that are available to treat periodontal conditions.

MED 007 – Medical Emergencies

This course will prepare the student to be trained to work in a variety of settings, including denture and dental offices, schools, and other non-traditional settings, which enables them to work in the absence of a dentist in case a life threatening emergency occurs. Emphasis is placed on the responsibility for completing and updating the patient’s health history at each appointment and for identifying patients with risk factors that may increase the likelihood of a medical emergency. In addition, students will be prepared to effectively prevent, recognize, and manage medical emergencies. All students who enroll from October 2024 are required to successfully pass CPR as part of this course.

PRE 009 – Preventative Dentistry

This course discusses the concept of health and wellness and includes an introduction to the philosophy of prevention and preventive dental care. Basic principles in client education and motivation will be discussed. This course describes the formation of stains, plaque and calculus deposits in addition to the initiation, progression and control of the two major dental diseases, caries and periodontal disease. Various preventive aids available for patients with complete or partial dentures will be discussed as well as various methods of tooth brushing and interdental cleaners and their effectiveness. At the end of this course, students will be able to positively educate and motivate patients to better oral health by recommending appropriate procedures, techniques and oral care products as well as demonstrate their proper use.

NUT 020 – Nutrition

This course introduces basic principles of nutrition with emphasis on nutritional requirements and their application to individual patient needs. Topics include the study of the food guide, nutrient functions, recommended daily allowances and related psychological principles. At the end of this course, the student will be able to recommend and counsel individuals on their food intake as related to their dental health.

COD 016 – Community Dentistry

This course is designed to provide Denturist students with the knowledge necessary to plan, implement and evaluate oral health care interventions in the community. This course will emphasize the principles, theories and concepts of community oral health as well as the methods for determining community oral health status, identifying barriers to optimum health and selecting appropriate barrier interventions through the various government sponsored community oral health programs available in Ontario.

EPR 019 – Ethics & Professional Relations

This course includes professional development, ethics, and jurisprudence with applications to practice management. Topics include professionalism, RHPA, Denturism Act, Code of Ethics, Standards of Practice and Guidelines, record keeping, conflict management, boundaries, IPAC and legal liabilities as health care professionals. Upon completion, students should demonstrate the ability to practice Denturism within established ethical standards and provincial laws.

HDBR 100 – Managing a Dental Practice, Client Assessment and Records

This course provides the students with the knowledge to properly assess patients in a methodical and thorough manner with an emphasis on the human element, while ensuring data is properly documented and protected. It will give students the tools to view each assessment, compile the data and properly apply it to a comprehensive treatment plan. This course will prepare the student to be able to efficiently manage a dental practice. It will include information about various forms of communication, bookkeeping, finances, inventory, scheduling, information management and dental practice software. By the end of this course, the student will have the skills to efficiently operate a denturist practice, perform oral assessments, and formulate a treatment plan based on the collected data and present the plan effectively to their patient.

DYP 010 – Gerontology

This course is intended to introduce students to concepts in psychology of aging and to a new way of thinking about a variety of topics such as myths of aging, biology of aging, gender issues, social roles and cultural expectations. Environmental issues, aging in diverse populations and mental health of the elderly will be discussed. At the end of this cours Review & Provincial Exam Preparation e, students will have understanding of the aging process and its effects on the human body, how it affects individuals and populations.

DIMP 001 – Implant Retained Overdentures

This course is designed to introduce the students to the technical aspects involved in the fabrication of an Implant Retained Overdenture including the impression taking procedures and treatment planning. In addition, fabrication and delivery of implant retained overdentures, selection and arrangement of artificial teeth, finishing and polishing of implant retained overdentures, repair, reline and other adjustments to be made to suit the needs of the patient will be discussed. At the end of this course, the student will know when implant retained overdentures are indicated as well as have the introductory knowledge and skills to fabricate implant retained overdentures.

SSJS 101 – Career and Employment Strategies

In this module, students will further develop their career planning skills and apply learned life skills by preparing for employment. A combination of “hard” skills (Résumé Development; Job Search; Researching; Networking; Letter Writing; Interviewing) and “soft” skills (Self-awareness; Goal Setting; Interpersonal Communication; Personal Presentation; Business Etiquette) will be assessed and developed. Students will learn about career planning, career change, and the school-to-work transition. Topics include career assessment, networking tools and the job search process. Active participation will be required.

BAPB 100 – Preparing a Business Plan

This module will allow students to explore the benefits of entrepreneurship, to provide a realistic understanding of what is involved in going into business and to build self-confidence by having students complete some of the basic steps in planning a business. Emphasis is on learning the various sources of help available for setting up a new firm, sharpening the focus of their business ideas, and doing much of the research and background work toward their own Business Plan.

PCA 014 – Clinical Prosthodontics, Theory & Application

This module provides work-based experience, enabling students to apply denture theory, skills and concepts involved in the fabrication of removable dentures. Direct supervision is delivered by clinical instructors, who provide guidance and feedback for all procedures. Students are expected to apply the theory taught in previous modules, as they develop their laboratory and clinical skills, while using specialized materials, tools and equipment. As students proficiently progress through the module and work towards a level of independence, they will begin to cultivate a sense of confidence in the field. It is mandatory that students adhere to applicable legislation, regulatory requirements, Standards of Practice and guidelines, in all aspects of Denturism practice. Students are required to demonstrate ethical behavior, safety practices, interpersonal and teamwork skills, and appropriate written and verbal communication using professional terminology.

DENT 100 – Digital Dentures

Digital dentures are created with the help of scanners, design software, mills, or printers. These digital tools can provide the patient with a more accurate and comfortable denture. This course takes the student through the step-by-step process of fabricating digital dentures. Digital denture concepts, benefits, features, indications, software, and hardware requirements will be discussed. By the end of this module students will begin demonstrating competency in utilizing appropriate methods for the assessment, treatment planning, and application of digital technologies for the restoration of completely edentulous patients.

HDRM 1000 – Review & Provincial Exam Preparation

Previously taught subjects will be reviewed in preparation for the exams in Clinical Prosthodontics and Application (PCA-014) and the provincial exams administered by the CDO. A practice Objective Structured Clinical Exam (OSCE) will take place where the instructor will provide feedback to improve the student’s methodology. This course is not instructional in nature; it will require students to review recommended texts and resources and assess their knowledge through practice questions, case presentations and role-playing. This course will also provide Denturism students with an understanding of the role of the Denturist within the community through mentorship. Through associating themselves with practicing Denturists, students can add to the knowledge and skills that they learned in the classroom, lab and clinic. Furthermore, students are encouraged to explore and begin to establish career goals which may be pursued upon graduation.

Passionate Instructors! Quality Education!

Oxford College is proud of its highly skilled and experienced instructors. Each one of them is passionate about providing quality education and dedicated to helping you develop the skills you need to succeed in the workforce and attain a meaningful career.

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Financial Aid

Many people need extra financial aid to attend school. At Oxford College, we believe that finances should not be a barrier for anyone seeking higher education. That’s why we have many funding programs in place, including OSAP, Second Career, and private student loans, to name a few. We will also collaborate with you to set up manageable monthly payment plans.
Sit down with a Financial Aid Advisor today. They will assess your situation.
And create a funding plan that works for you.

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For immediate questions, call 1-866-604-5739