LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Dental Materials (PgD Dental Materials)

The science of dental materials is the foundation of modern restorative and cosmetic dentistry. The LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Dental Materials (PgD Dental Materials) is an advanced, internationally recognized qualification designed for dental professionals who want to master the properties, applications, and innovations of biomaterials in dentistry. This Dental Materials Level 7 postgraduate diploma equips you with the expertise to make evidence‑based decisions that directly improve patient outcomes and treatment longevity.

Unlike short courses, this accredited Postgraduate Diploma in Dental Materials offers a comprehensive curriculum covering dental ceramics, composites, cements, impression materials, and advanced restorative solutions. You will explore how materials interact with oral tissues, how to select the right material for complex cases, and how innovations in dental technology are shaping the future of clinical practice.

The flexibility of the PgD Dental Materials online program makes it accessible to professionals worldwide, including those in the UK, Pakistan, the Middle East, and beyond. Designed for busy practitioners, this postgraduate diploma allows you to continue your clinical or academic career while earning a globally recognized advanced qualification in Dental Materials.

By completing the LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Dental Materials, you will not only expand your technical expertise but also strengthen your professional profile. Employers, universities, and healthcare organizations value specialists trained at this level, as they play a critical role in advancing restorative dentistry, prosthodontics, and cosmetic applications.

From understanding biomaterials in dentistry to applying cutting‑edge restorative techniques, this PgD Dental Materials qualification prepares you to become a trusted leader in one of the most important areas of modern dental science. It is more than just a course—it is a career‑defining step that opens doors to senior clinical roles, academic opportunities, and international recognition.

If you are ready to specialize at the highest level and make a lasting impact in dental practice, this postgraduate diploma is the perfect pathway.

Course Overview

Qualification Title

LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Dental Materials (PgD Dental Materials)

Total Units

6

Total Credits

120

GLH

600

Qualification #

LICQ2200702

Qualification Specification

Download Qualification Specification

To enroll in the LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Geriatric Dentistry (PgD Geriatric Dentistry), applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 21 years old.
  • Educational Requirements: A recognised Bachelor’s degree in Dentistry (BDS or equivalent) from an accredited institution is required.
  • Experience: A minimum of two years post-qualification clinical experience in dentistry or a related field is required. Experience in restorative, prosthodontic, or laboratory-based dental work is advantageous.
  • English Language Proficiency: Learners must demonstrate a high level of English proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking. Non-native English speakers may need to provide evidence through a recognized language test such as IELTS (minimum score of 6.0) or equivalent, or proof of prior education delivered in English.
  • Commitment to CPD
    This programme is designed for professionals actively engaged in Continuing Professional Development and willing to enhance their clinical skills and knowledge.
  • Access to Required Resources
    Learners should have access to a clinical or laboratory setting equipped for practical work with dental materials. Access to digital learning platforms, research literature, and professional tools is essential for academic study and practical application.

Qualification#

Unit Title

Credits

GLH

LICQ2200702-1

Principles of Dental Materials

20

100

LICQ2200702-2

Biomaterials and Biocompatibility

20

100

LICQ2200702-3

Advanced Restorative and Prosthetic Materials

20

100

LICQ2200702-4

Material Testing and Laboratory Techniques

20

100

LICQ2200702-5

Innovations and Digital Dentistry in Materials

20

100

LICQ2200702-6

Clinical Practice, Case Management, and Research in Dental Materials

20

100

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:

1. Principles of Dental Materials

By the end of this unit, the learner will be able to:

  1. Analyse the fundamental principles and classification of dental materials.
  2. Evaluate the physical, chemical, and mechanical properties relevant to clinical and laboratory applications.
  3. Apply material science principles to optimise selection and usage in dental practice.
  4. Critically assess evidence-based approaches to material selection and application.

2. Biomaterials and Biocompatibility

By the end of this unit, the learner will be able to:

  1. Examine the interactions between dental materials and oral tissues.
  2. Evaluate biocompatibility and potential adverse effects of dental materials.
  3. Apply knowledge of material behaviour to enhance patient safety and treatment outcomes.
  4. Critically assess research and literature on biomaterials in clinical dentistry.

3. Advanced Restorative and Prosthetic Materials

By the end of this unit, the learner will be able to:

  1. Assess the properties and clinical applications of restorative and prosthetic materials.
  2. Demonstrate advanced skills in manipulation and application of composites, ceramics, metals, and polymers.
  3. Develop evidence-based treatment plans integrating material selection and patient-specific needs.
  4. Critically evaluate clinical outcomes associated with different dental materials.

4. Material Testing and Laboratory Techniques

By the end of this unit, the learner will be able to:

  1. Apply laboratory procedures and testing methods to evaluate material performance.
  2. Assess the durability, strength, and suitability of dental materials for clinical use.
  3. Implement quality control procedures to ensure reliable and reproducible results.
  4. Critically analyse laboratory data to support material selection and clinical decision-making.

5. Innovations and Digital Dentistry in Materials

By the end of this unit, the learner will be able to:

  1. Evaluate emerging materials and technologies in restorative and prosthetic dentistry.
  2. Integrate digital dentistry tools, including CAD/CAM systems, into material selection and treatment planning.
  3. Assess the impact of innovations on clinical outcomes and patient care.
  4. Critically appraise research and advancements in dental materials science.

6. Clinical Practice, Case Management, and Research in Dental Materials

By the end of this unit, the learner will be able to:

  1. Apply knowledge of dental materials to real-world clinical cases.
  2. Develop comprehensive treatment plans incorporating evidence-based material selection.
  3. Critically evaluate research methodologies relevant to dental materials.
  4. Demonstrate professional decision-making and reflective practice in complex clinical scenarios.

The LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Dental Materials (PgD Dental Materials) is designed for dental professionals, graduates, and specialists who want to advance their expertise in biomaterials, restorative dentistry, and cosmetic applications. This Dental Materials Level 7 postgraduate diploma is ideal for those aiming to enhance their clinical decision‑making, strengthen academic credentials, and gain an internationally recognized qualification. Whether you are a practicing dentist, researcher, or international professional, this accredited postgraduate diploma provides the advanced skills, credibility, and flexibility to excel in modern dental practice.

1. Practicing dentists seeking advanced material expertise

  • Dentists aiming to specialize in restorative and cosmetic dentistry
  • Professionals who want to expand treatment options with advanced biomaterials
  • Those interested in earning a recognized PgD Dental Materials qualification
  • Practitioners focusing on ceramics, composites, and cements
  • Dentists looking to improve patient outcomes through evidence‑based material selection

2. Recent dental graduates

  • Graduates who want to specialize early in Dental Materials
  • Students seeking a postgraduate diploma to strengthen their career profile
  • Young dentists aiming to stand out in a competitive dental job market
  • Learners looking for flexible online PgD Dental Materials programs
  • Professionals aiming for international recognition in dental biomaterials

3. International dental professionals

  • Dentists from Pakistan, UK, Middle East, and other regions
  • Professionals seeking a globally accredited Dental Materials postgraduate diploma
  • Those who prefer flexible online study options
  • Practitioners aiming to meet international dental material standards
  • Dentists looking to expand career opportunities abroad

4. Dental specialists expanding expertise

  • Prosthodontists, orthodontists, and endodontists adding material science knowledge
  • Specialists aiming to broaden restorative and cosmetic capabilities
  • Professionals seeking continuing professional development (CPD)
  • Those who want to integrate advanced materials into daily practice
  • Dentists pursuing multi‑disciplinary collaboration in treatment planning

5. Academic and teaching professionals

  • Dental educators seeking updated knowledge of dental biomaterials
  • Academics aiming to strengthen teaching and research credentials
  • Trainers who want to mentor future dental specialists
  • Researchers looking for internationally recognized qualifications
  • Educators seeking evidence‑based dental materials training

6. Healthcare and dental technology professionals

  • Dental technicians interested in restorative and prosthetic materials
  • Allied health staff supporting dental laboratories and clinics
  • Professionals collaborating with dentists on material applications
  • Practitioners working in dental product development and testing
  • Those seeking interdisciplinary knowledge in dental biomaterials

7. Career‑focused dental practitioners

  • Dentists aiming for career advancement in Dental Materials
  • Professionals looking to increase recognition and credibility
  • Practitioners seeking higher earning potential through specialization
  • Dentists preparing for leadership roles in clinics and institutions
  • Professionals committed to lifelong learning and excellence

Centres delivering the LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Dental Materials (PgD Dental Materials) must meet the following criteria to ensure high-quality training, assessment, and learner support:

  1. Accreditation and Approval
    • Must be an officially approved LICQual centre with valid accreditation to deliver Level 7 postgraduate dental qualifications.
    • Centres must comply with LICQual’s quality assurance, assessment, and regulatory standards.
  2. Qualified and Experienced Staff
    • Trainers and assessors must hold recognised qualifications in dentistry, restorative dentistry, or dental materials science.
    • Faculty should have substantial clinical, laboratory, and research experience in the use and evaluation of dental materials.
    • Assessors must be trained in Level 7 assessment practices and internal verification procedures.
  3. Facilities and Resources
    • Access to clinical and laboratory facilities equipped for practical work with dental materials, including restorative, prosthetic, and aesthetic applications.
    • Availability of material testing equipment, instruments, and safe storage for laboratory resources.
    • Compliance with health, safety, and infection control regulations.
  4. Learning Resources
    • Provision of up-to-date academic materials, professional journals, and case studies in dental materials science.
    • Access to digital learning platforms for interactive study, simulations, and learner support.
  5. Assessment and Quality Assurance
    • Systems for practical, written, and oral assessments aligned with Level 7 standards.
    • Secure maintenance of learner records, assessment evidence, and verification documentation.
  6. Learner Support
    • Academic and pastoral support throughout the programme.
    • Guidance on CPD, professional development, and career progression in dental materials and restorative practice.

These requirements ensure learners receive professional, evidence-based, and high-standard training, enabling them to develop the skills, knowledge, and competence required for advanced practice in dental materials science.

Assessment and Verification

All units within this qualification are subject to internal assessment by the approved centre and external verification by LICQual. The qualification follows a criterion-referenced assessment approach, ensuring that learners meet all specified learning outcomes.

To achieve a ‘Pass’ in any unit, learners must provide valid, sufficient, and authentic evidence demonstrating their attainment of all learning outcomes and compliance with the prescribed assessment criteria. The Assessor is responsible for evaluating the evidence and determining whether the learner has successfully met the required standards.

Assessors must maintain a clear and comprehensive audit trail, documenting the basis for their assessment decisions to ensure transparency, consistency, and compliance with quality assurance requirements.