My opinion is that anyone who has the chance to do a full-time higher education course (preferably many miles from home) should grasp it with both hands. Most people rate their 'student years' as among the happiest of their lives.
As far as the pay is concerned, here's a quote from Learn Direct:
"The starting salary for a dental technician with a relevant qualification is likely to be around �19,000.
Technician specialists may earn between �23,000 and �31,000.
A dental technician with advanced skills and additional responsibilities can earn up to �36,000".
Source (which has other relevant information):
http://www.learndirect-advice.co.uk/helpwithyo urcareer/jobprofiles/profiles/profile582/
Chris