Course Summary
| Course Location: | Multiple locations |
|---|---|
| Duration: | Two Years |
| Level: | Postgraduate |
| Delivery: | Hybrid Learning, Part-time |
| Campus: | University of Greater Manchester/ Bolton |
| Award: | MSc |
| Credits: | 180 |
MSc in Restorative and Aesthetic Dentistry
University of Greater Manchester programmes delivered by the City of London Dental School at SynTrain Academy, an authorised CoLDS delivery site
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The MSc in Restorative and Aesthetic Dentistry is driven by new digital technologies as dentists are now expected to provide the latest orthodontic and advanced restorative treatments such as implantology and clear aligner treatments.
Optimum results in these advanced treatment modalities are reliant on the maintenance of hard and soft tissue health and a sound understanding of periodontology which is fundamental to success.
University of Greater Manchester programmes delivered by the City of London Dental School at SynTrain Academy, an authorised CoLDS delivery site.
By the end of this programme, delegates will be able to:
- Carry out comprehensive diagnosis and structured treatment planning for a wide range of restorative cases
- Design and deliver smile makeovers, from minimally invasive treatments to full-mouth rehabilitation cases
- Plan and place composite and ceramic veneers, with an emphasis on aesthetics, function, and longevity
- Implement safe and effective tooth whitening protocols tailored to individual patient needs
- Diagnose and manage toothwear, including prevention, monitoring, and restorative intervention
- Deliver predictable outcomes in fixed prosthodontics, including crowns, bridges, and veneers
- Assess and manage occlusion, applying principles to both simple and complex full-mouth rehabilitation cases
- Plan and restore implant cases, integrating implant restorative dentistry into comprehensive treatment plans
- Diagnose and manage endodontic cases, ensuring appropriate case selection and high-quality outcomes
Clinical Skills Development Timetable
- Learn how to capture high-quality dental images to showcase clinical work effectively.
- Understand the importance of marketing in dentistry and how it supports practice growth.
- Explore strategies for building a strong online presence through digital platforms.
- Take part in hands-on photography sessions covering intraoral and extraoral shots.
- Develop photography skills for clinical documentation and marketing purposes.
- Create marketing materials such as brochures, flyers and social media content.
- Learn the principles of smile design and how to create aesthetically pleasing smiles.
- Use comprehensive assessment and digital smile design software to plan natural-looking results.
- Analyse smile characteristics and tailor designs to individual patient preferences.
- Build a smile design portfolio to showcase cosmetic dentistry skills.
- Learn the fundamentals of dental occlusion and its role in long-term restoration stability and function.
- Understand occlusal principles, examination and diagnosis for successful restorative treatment planning.
- Diagnose and manage occlusal discrepancies and TMD symptoms using different splint designs.
- Gain practical experience in articulator setup and adjustment.
- Develop hands-on skills in occlusal analysis using articulating paper and shimstock.
- Explore both analogue and digital workflows in occlusal assessment.
- Learn the principles of composite bonding and how to bond restorations effectively to tooth structure.
- Understand adhesive systems, bonding protocols and different bonding techniques.
- Practise direct and indirect composite bonding using various adhesive systems.
- Develop skills to create durable, functional and aesthetic composite restorations.
- Learn the importance of isolation and moisture control in posterior composite restorations.
- Understand the step-by-step process of applying rubber dam effectively.
- Master rubber dam isolation techniques for predictable restorative outcomes.
- Practise posterior composite restoration techniques using different layering methods.
- Develop skills in proper composite placement for successful posterior restorations.
- Learn effective communication strategies for dental practice.
- Build rapport with patients, educate them clearly and address their concerns confidently.
- Take part in role-playing exercises and communication workshops.
- Improve patient satisfaction, trust and treatment acceptance through stronger communication skills.
- Learn the principles of designing removable partial dentures for partially edentulous patients.
- Understand impression techniques and framework fabrication for partial dentures.
- Gain hands-on experience in partial denture framework design, adjustments and repairs.
- Develop skills to restore function and aesthetics for patients with missing teeth.
- Learn the full process of complete denture fabrication for fully edentulous patients.
- Understand initial assessment, impression taking, denture setup and final prosthesis delivery.
- Practise teeth arrangement, try-in procedures and occlusal refinement.
- Gain practical experience in restoring oral health, function and aesthetics for edentulous patients.
- Learn advanced concepts in full mouth rehabilitation and comprehensive treatment planning.
- Understand the role of temporomandibular splint therapy in complex restorative cases.
- Explore interdisciplinary approaches to restoring function, aesthetics and occlusal harmony.
- Practise temporisation techniques for single-tooth and full mouth rehabilitation cases.
- Complete mock-up exercises to help evaluate and plan complex restorative treatments.
- Develop skills to achieve predictable outcomes in full mouth rehabilitation cases.
- Gain an overview of endodontic principles, diagnosis and treatment planning.
- Learn the fundamentals of root canal therapy, including access cavity preparation, instrumentation and irrigation.
- Practise access cavity preparation and canal negotiation techniques on extracted teeth.
- Build hands-on experience in root canal instrumentation for successful endodontic treatment.
- Build on the foundation from Endodontics Day 1 with more advanced endodontic procedures.
- Learn how to manage complex endodontic cases, including retreatment and apexification.
- Develop skills in post and core restoration techniques for structurally compromised teeth.
- Practise obturation techniques using gutta-percha and different sealers.
- Focus on achieving optimal root canal fillings and durable core restorations.
- Learn the principles of restoring anterior teeth with porcelain crowns.
- Understand tooth preparation, impression techniques and shade selection for anterior crown restorations.
- Practise preparation, temporisation and cementation of anterior crowns.
- Develop proficiency in restoring anterior teeth with functional and aesthetic outcomes.
- Gain hands-on experience in achieving accurate preparation and natural-looking anterior crown restorations.
- Learn techniques for restoring posterior teeth with porcelain crowns.
- Understand the principles of conservative tooth preparation for posterior crown restorations.
- Practise preparation, temporisation and cementation techniques for posterior crowns.
- Develop skills to ensure proper fit, function and longevity of posterior restorations.
- Focus on achieving optimal occlusion in posterior crown cases.
- Learn the principles of veneer preparation, material selection and cementation.
- Understand how veneers can improve the aesthetics of anterior teeth.
- Practise veneer preparation and cementation techniques through hands-on sessions.
- Develop skills in bonding veneers for durable and aesthetic outcomes.
- Gain practical experience in creating natural-looking veneer restorations.
- Learn the principles of bridge design, pontic selection and onlay preparation.
- Understand how fixed dental prostheses are used to replace missing teeth and restore occlusal function.
- Practise bridge preparation, fabrication and cementation techniques.
- Develop skills in onlay preparation and cementation for conservative tooth restoration.
- Learn how to manage tooth structure effectively using onlays.
- Understand the fundamentals of injection moulding systems and techniques.
- Learn how injection moulding is used to fabricate provisional crowns and bridges.
- Take part in hands-on injection moulding exercises to create provisional restorations.
- Develop skills in producing accurate and durable provisional restorations.
- Apply injection moulding techniques to a range of clinical situations.
- Build on the skills developed in Injection Moulding Day 1.
- Learn advanced injection moulding techniques for complex provisional restorations.
- Refine skills in crown and bridge fabrication, customisation and cementation.
- Practise creating accurate temporary restorations for challenging clinical cases.
- Develop confidence in providing precise and durable provisional solutions.
- Understand the role of implant dentistry in modern restorative treatment.
- Learn the principles of implant treatment planning, surgical placement and restoration techniques.
- Practise implant placement on models through hands-on exercises.
- Develop practical skills in implant restoration techniques.
- Gain experience in restoring missing teeth with dental implants effectively and predictably.
- Learn the fundamentals of periodontal assessment, diagnosis and non-surgical periodontal therapy.
- Understand the importance of periodontal health in achieving successful restorative outcomes.
- Develop skills in managing periodontally compromised cases.
- Learn how to integrate restorative interventions into periodontal treatment planning.
- Practise collaborative treatment planning for patients with periodontal and restorative needs.
- Cover key procedures including crown lengthening and gingivectomies.
- Explore the integration of orthodontic treatment with restorative dentistry.
- Understand interdisciplinary approaches to functional and aesthetic treatment planning.
- Learn how to coordinate orthodontic and restorative procedures effectively.
- Practise managing orthodontic cases with restorative interventions.
- Develop skills to achieve comprehensive smile transformations through combined orthodontic and restorative care.
- Take part in hands-on live patient training at state-of-the-art clinics.
- Learn in a real-world clinical environment designed for advanced restorative and aesthetic dentistry.
- Observe and participate in advanced restorative and aesthetic treatments.
- Gain exposure to treatments including composite bonding, injection moulding, porcelain veneers, full-mouth rehabilitation and implant restoration.
- Build confidence in delivering high-quality patient care.
- Develop practical clinical experience using modern facilities and cutting-edge dental technology.
- Strengthen your understanding of restorative and aesthetic dentistry through supervised live patient training.
- Understanding Research & Critical Appraisal (URECA)
- This module is designed to help you develop the research skills necessary to identify your dissertation topic, create a detailed proposal, and plan your research effectively. It will equip you with the academic skills required for Master’s level study.
- The module encompasses key areas such as clinical statistics, evidence-based practice, critical appraisal, measurement, and research design, with a focus on their specific applications in medical research and treatment.
- You will learn how to formulate realistic research objectives and establish an appropriate conceptual and analytical framework for your study.
- Additionally, you will acquire skills in identifying, collating, and critically reviewing relevant literature, enabling you to make informed decisions regarding the research philosophies, strategies, and methods best suited to your project.
- Reflective Clinical Practice
- The module aims to cultivate reflective practitioners by fostering the development of innovative and reflective thinking alongside problem-solving skills. Reflective practice serves as a vital tool for enhancing clinical judgment and building medical expertise, encouraging a thoughtful and evidence-based approach to clinical care.
- The module requires students to formulate and justify their own patient centred treatment plans with illustrated case reports. The module affords the opportunity to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of a specialist treatment modality and reflect on learning experiences and competencies gained from various treatment modalities relevant to their dissertation topic.
- Students will also need to consider how their practices and attitudes have evolved and changed over time because of these experiences. Case reports will be used for them reflect on treatment outcomes so helping them to identify connections between intended and actual outcomes achieved and how they may be improved upon.
- Dissertation
- This taught module offers the opportunity to conduct an extended and significant research project. It enables you to synthesize the academic knowledge gained from your previous postgraduate studies and practical experiences to create an evaluative and critical discussion on a specialist dental topic directly related to your program.
- The module aims to enhance your skills in identifying a problem, determining its significance, formulating a hypothesis or proposition, designing a method for testing the hypothesis, and evaluating the results.
Faculties
Dr. Jin J Vaghela
DentistExperienced CEO of Smile Dental with a demonstrated history of working in the medical practice industry. Skilled in Lecturing, Healthcare, B
Dr. Kish Patel
DentistThis module aims to foster an evidence-based approach to patient selection as well as the knowledge and understanding of the theory and practice required to recognise and provide advanced level restorative and aesthetic treatment modalities and risk assessment.
Its objective is to highlight potential restorative and aesthetic complications in treatment and for you to be able to develop
p risk assessment strategies to avoid or minimise these complications in restorative and aesthetic therapy. The practice of predominately elective treatments is one of the most challenging and complex fields of medicine as it often entails an in-depth knowledge of more than one specialty with each having a unique set of complications that need to be identified and effectively managed.
The challenges you may face can range from unacceptable aesthetics and poor treatment outcomes to irreversible surgical trauma to vital structures and potentially life-threatening haemorrhage. This module enhances your understanding of the requirements and skills essential to the safe clinical practice and application of advanced treatment modalities, as well as the challenge of long-term maintenance issues or complications.
Recognizing that not all complications can be prevented, the module also addresses essential management strategies, ethical considerations related to informed consent, and the management of patient expectations. You will develop skills in communication, organization, planning, problem-solving, treatment planning, risk assessment, ethical responsibility, and securing consent.
This module introduces the concept of digital smile design and the aesthetic management of dentition, focusing on the application of advanced three-dimensional imaging systems and supporting software. Participants will gain an in-depth understanding of various restorative protocols employed in aesthetic makeovers, along with their respective advantages and limitations. The module also includes the critical analysis of patient case studies, enabling participants to develop comprehensive treatment plans utilizing the technologies covered.
Patient awareness of aesthetics, along with advancements in orthodontic techniques, implantology, and restorative rehabilitation, has led to a rise in adults seeking advanced dental treatments. As a result, dentists are increasingly tasked with diagnosing and managing occlusion as part of broader treatment plans.
This multidisciplinary module examines the anatomy, etiology, and management of occlusion from both orthodontic and restorative viewpoints. Its goal is to equip dentists with the skills to accurately diagnose occlusal issues and develop comprehensive treatment plans that facilitate a multidisciplinary approach to patient care.
This module provides a comprehensive evaluation of cutting-edge computer-aided design and manufacturing (CADCAM) technologies utilized in digital dentistry. It aims to equip participants with hands-on experience in using commercial CADCAM systems. Participants will develop a foundational understanding of CAD software and gain practical competence in its application.
The module also introduces image-capturing technologies, exploring their indications and integration into the digital workflow. Detailed instruction on commonly used software for treatment planning and the design of restorative appliances and surgical guides is included. Participants will have the opportunity to apply CAD software in real-life cases, critically assessing its functionality and application across various treatment modalities. Additionally, the module covers CAM processes, highlighting appliance fabrication using advanced hardware such as milling and 3D printing technologies.
The module aims to cultivate reflective practitioners by fostering the development of innovative and reflective thinking alongside problem-solving skills.. Reflective practice serves as a vital tool for enhancing clinical judgment and building medical expertise, encouraging a thoughtful and evidence-based approach to clinical care.
The module requires students to formulate and justify their own patient centred treatment plans with illustrated case reports. The module affords the opportunity to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of a specialist treatment modality and reflect on learning experiences and competencies gained from various treatment modalities relevant to their dissertation topic.
Students will also need to consider how their practices and attitudes have evolved and changed over time because of these experiences. Case reports will be used for them reflect on treatment outcomes so helping them to identify connections between intended and actual outcomes achieved and how they may be improved upon.
This module is designed to help you develop the research skills necessary to identify your dissertation topic, create a detailed proposal, and plan your research effectively. It will equip you with the academic skills required for Master’s level study.
The module encompasses key areas such as clinical statistics, evidence-based practice, critical appraisal, measurement, and research design, with a focus on their specific applications in medical research and treatment.
You will learn how to formulate realistic research objectives and establish an appropriate conceptual and analytical framework for your study. Additionally, you will acquire skills in identifying, collating, and critically reviewing relevant literature, enabling you to make informed decisions regarding the research philosophies, strategies, and methods best suited to your project.
This taught module offers the opportunity to conduct an extended and significant research project. It enables you to synthesize the academic knowledge gained from your previous postgraduate studies and practical experiences to create an evaluative and critical discussion on a specialist dental topic directly related to your program.
The module aims to enhance your skills in identifying a problem, determining its significance, formulating a hypothesis or proposition, designing a method for testing the hypothesis, and evaluating the results.
Payment Terms
We offer flexible payment options to suit your needs:
- Pay in Full – Settle the full course fee upfront.
- Finance Option via Tabeo – Spread the cost with financing arranged through our external partner, Tabeo.
- 12-Month Payment Plan – Available on hands-on format.
- Hands-on Course: £5,000 deposit, followed by 12 monthly payments of £2,028
The Advanced Prior Learning (APL) Delegate Pathway is designed for clinicians who have successfully completed the Diploma and wish to progress their academic study and clinical development at an advanced level.
Through this pathway, delegates will further develop their knowledge and clinical understanding in advanced implantology and restorative aesthetic dentistry. The programme places particular emphasis on the critical evaluation of contemporary research, the application of evidence-informed methodologies, and the integration of advanced principles into clinical practice. In addition, delegates will complete a series of specified modules designed to extend, complement, and consolidate prior learning.
The Advanced Prior Learning Delegate Pathway offers an appropriate progression route for practitioners seeking to enhance both their academic profile and clinical expertise within a structured and rigorous educational framework.
Apply now to take the next step in your professional development.
FAQ
Comprehensive (Blended Learning Route):
- We run one cohort each year, with 24 teaching days scheduled on one Friday and Saturday per month.
- Every April of each year
- Each cohort is intentionally capped at 20 delegates and supported by 2 experienced lecturers, ensuring close supervision and personalised learning.
This programme is designed for dentists who are looking to enhance their clinical practice and skills, through a platform which offers continual access to support, advice and knowledge. The Restorative & Aesthetic Programme is suitable for dentists working in any type of practice. It caters for a wide range of general dentistry so that delegates can enhance their clinical skills no matter which environment they are working in.
No, this course is separate from the one offered in Manchester, we are based in Bolton, Greater Manchester.
Yes. We offer flexible entry points. If you join mid-cohort, you will be given the opportunity to attend any missed hands-on learning days with the next available cohort, ensuring no loss of training.
Yes, this is possible for many delegates.
- Hands-on days are fixed, but once these are completed—and your coursework, exams, and (where applicable) dissertation are passed—you may complete early
- The same flexibility applies to the dissertation component, depending on your pace and submission
Progression explained clearly:
- During the first 12 months, you complete the Level 7 Diploma, alongside structured hands-on experience
Upon completion of the Diploma stage, you will be awarded a Level 7 EduQual Postgraduate Diploma, and you may then progress onto the MSc if desired.
Yes.
- You may enrol on the MSc without GDC registration
- You will have full access to phantom-head training and non-patient hands-on components
- Recognition varies by country, and delegates must confirm requirements with their local regulatory authority
- As a UK-accredited MSc, the qualification is widely accepted internationally
- As this is a part-time MSc, it does not confer specialist status on registers such as the UK GDC Specialist Register
- The qualification supports legal practice in many international jurisdictions, subject to local regulations
No, this course does not offer mentorship. At the end of the first year, you will observe live patient treatment on Restorative & Aesthetic Dentistry. Treatments will be Composite Bonding, Injection Moulding, Porcelain Veneers or Full Mouth Rehabilitation.
We offer a range of flexible payment options to support our delegates:
- Pay in full – via our website or by bank transfer
- Finance options – available through Tabeo (subject to approval)
- 12-month payment plan – £5,000 deposit to secure your place, with the remaining balance spread evenly over 12 monthly instalments
Bank Transfer Details:
Account Name: Syntrain International Training
Sort Code: 30-91-01
Account Number: 20607868
Yes.
- You may complete the Level 7 Diploma first
- You will then APL (Accredit Prior Learning) onto the MSc programme
- APL fees and details are clearly outlined in the brochure
At present, we do not offer Student visa sponsorship for our part-time MSc programmes.
These programmes are designed for clinicians who already hold the appropriate right to work or study in the UK, or who are completing the course via the digital/distance-learning route.
Post-nominals are awarded in line with the qualification completed and provide credible recognition of your advanced training.
- MSc – MSc Specialist Practice in Restorative & Aesthetic Dentistry
Absolutely. Our programmes are specifically designed for busy clinicians. With a flexible structure, blended learning, and on-demand digital content, you can progress at a pace that works around full-time work and family life.
Yes. Our MSc programmes are awarded by the University of Greater Manchester, providing a recognised and respected academic qualification.
No, physical attendance is not mandatory. You have the option to attend if you wish, but it is not a requirement of the course. Your academic tutor will arrange weekly Zoom or Teams meetings at a time that is convenient for you.
- Yes. If you have successfully completed a relevant PG Diploma with one of our approved partner institutions, you may be eligible to progress onto the MSc programme. Progression is subject to review of your prior qualification, academic transcripts, and meeting the MSc entry requirements.
- Please contact our admissions team with details of your PG Diploma so we can advise on eligibility and the next steps.
Yes. All of our MSc programmes are fully mapped against the relevant Royal College of Surgeons examination blueprints, ensuring structured alignment with the competencies and knowledge required.
It means the MSc curriculum has been designed to reflect the content, learning outcomes, and clinical competencies assessed in the RCS examinations. This ensures a coherent academic pathway towards exam readiness.
The programme integrates evidence-based learning, clinical case exposure, and structured assessments that mirror the knowledge and skills required for the RCS exam format.
We typically encourage candidates to undertake the RCS examination after completing their MSc, once they have consolidated both their academic knowledge and clinical experience.
While the MSc provides a comprehensive foundation, some candidates may choose to undertake additional revision or exam-focused preparation depending on their individual confidence and experience.
It provides a clear progression pathway from postgraduate academic study to a recognised professional qualification, ensuring candidates are well-prepared and confident when approaching the RCS examination.