Phantom Head Training Area

These facilities come with the latest in audio-visual technology – with each unit linking up to the demonstrator's unit – ensuring that detailed work can be observed much more easily.

How students use these facilities

BDS and Dental Therapy students spend Year 1 at the Preston Campus learning clinical skills in one of the most modern phantom head rooms in Europe, equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment. In addition to the simulator lab there are five fully functional surgeries for the students to practice all aspects of dental care in a surgery that is almost identical to the ones they will work in the Dental Education Centres (DECs) in years 2-4 (BDS) and years 2-3 (Dental Therapy).

Postgraduate taught sessions are held at the University’s Preston Campus, in purpose-built facilities incorporating a phantom-head training area as well as dedicated lecture and seminar rooms. As one of only a few universities nationally to boast its own on-campus dental clinic, we are fully equipped to give postgraduate students direct access to practical experience in high-end dental work, within the institution.

Further resources for Dental Therapy students

Dental Therapy and BDS students spend their first year studying on the Preston Campus in the new purpose-built school, before relocating for two years’ clinical training at one of four newly-established Dental Education Centres (DECs) in Accrington, Blackpool, Carlisle and Morecambe Bay.

The DECs are clinical training centres where students treat patients, under supervision, and gain first-hand experience within the communities they are most likely to serve after graduation.

The four local DECs have been equipped with brand new surgeries, tutorial and study facilities dedicated for student teaching. UCLan and the DECs are linked via IT for learning and teaching, with individual student access to the relevant intranets.

By placing our students at the heart of community dental services within Cumbria and Lancashire, we are aiming not only to attract local candidates, but also to foster long-standing relationships with those communities, leading ultimately to an increase in the numbers of newly qualified dentists who will remain in the area to continue their professional career.

Detailed information

General enquiry