This session supports newly qualified and early-career dental technicians by bridging the gap between undergraduate study and professional practice. Using NHS hospital laboratory case studies, it shows how foundational skills translate into real-world work and offers insight for educators, supervisors, and lab managers on early-career development and training needs.

• Understand the transition from undergraduate training to NHS hospital practice - Recognise how core skills are applied and adapted for complex prosthetic cases, including obturators - Identify challenges and learning points in early-career prosthetic fabrication - Appreciate the role of ongoing learning and case exposure in building confidence and competence as a newly qualified technician.