Bree gives dental students something to smile about

Having started in the dental industry at 16, Bree understands where that first step can lead. Her career has taken her from a traineeship at Westmead Hospital in Sydney to oral surgery, university-based dental assisting and, since 2016, teaching at TAFE Queensland.

“The best part for me is the students and watching them grow - not just to be a dental assistant but watching them grow in confidence and as a person,” Bree said.

That confidence is essential in a role that helps keep dental practices running smoothly. Dental assistants support dentists, hygienists, oral health therapists, oral surgeons, orthodontists and other dental professionals.

“They’re kind of the backbone of the surgery. Without them, everything slows down and doesn’t work as smoothly,” Bree explained.

Students completing the Certificate III in Dental Assisting (HLT35021) at TAFE Queensland build their capability in purpose-built, industry-standard dental facilities at the South Bank and Loganlea campuses before entering the workplace.

They spend about 50 to 60 hours in a clinic environment learning infection control, procedures, equipment and chairside assisting, using training resources including dental mannequins with real suction capability.

That preparation is followed by 300 hours of vocational placement in real dental workplaces across Queensland.

“You’re building their skills, their knowledge and their confidence before they meet a patient. Confidence is a massive thing before you put a suction in someone’s mouth,” Bree said.

The training also connects students directly with industry. TAFE Queensland’s dental assisting teachers work with dental practices and other employers to create hundreds of placement opportunities, from northern Queensland to the Gold Coast. Students may also arrange placement with a practice they already know.

These connections can turn workplace experience into employment. At the recent annual dental assisting industry collaboration event, representatives from private practices, Queensland Health and corporate dental practices met with educators and students.

Bree said the program’s most recent data showed more than 80 per cent of students were securing employment at the end of their placement.

“Everyone at TAFE Queensland puts a lot of effort into growing those relationships with industry,” she said.

While those connections can open doors to employment, Bree says the impact of vocational education often extends well beyond technical skills.

One of her most memorable students recently completed the course after overcoming significant personal challenges and struggling with confidence.

The course became an anchor for the student, who found purpose and belonging through training before gaining a job at the practice where she completed her placement.

“It’s those students who find that dental assisting is their purpose, and grow as people, that inspires my passion for my teaching career,” Bree said.

Stories like this reflect the broader opportunities available in dental assisting, with pathways into general dentistry and specialisations such as orthodontics and oral surgery. Bree’s own career shows where those opportunities can lead.

She is now studying with the Australian College of Infection Prevention and Control and hopes to continue combining education with her interest in infection control.

“Dentistry is a big industry, and there is a lot of opportunity,” she said.

Her advice to anyone considering dental assisting is to stay curious and embrace every chance to learn.

“Come with an open mind, lots of questions and be prepared to say yes to every opportunity you’re given. Even if you’re scared, just come and do it anyway,” Bree said.

With practical training, industry-standard facilities, dedicated teachers and extensive placement opportunities, TAFE Queensland’s dental assistant students can build the skills and confidence to step into the workplace ready to contribute from day one.