The role of the dental technician is to design, construct and repair dental appliances in one of three areas: orthodontics; crown and bridge technician; or prosthetics. Dental technicians can work for both the NHS and private sector. When working in hospitals, dental technicians are in contact with dental surgeons; if laboratory based, small team or lone working is common. The qualifications required are registration with the General Dental Council (GDC) and successful completion of an accredited qualification. For advanced dental technician work, a degree-level qualification is required.