Dental lab technicians play an important role in the dental industry. They use their knowledge and skills to create dental prosthetics, such as crowns, bridges, and implants.
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Job Description
Dental lab techs are responsible for fabricating dental prosthetics, such as crowns, bridges, and implants, according to dental prescriptions. They use a variety of tools and materials, such as plaster, acrylic, metal, and porcelain, to create dental appliances. Dental lab techs must be able to follow detailed instructions and work with a high degree of precision. In this role, you will also be responsible for maintaining dental equipment and keeping your work area clean.
Dental lab technicians work with dentists and patients to create custom dental prosthetics, such as crowns, bridges, and implants.
A dental lab technician is a skilled craftsman who works with dentists and patients to create custom dental prosthetics, such as crowns, bridges, and implants. Most technicians work in commercial dental laboratories, although some are employed by dentists’ offices or hospitals.
Dental technicians typically have an associate’s degree in dental laboratory technology or a related field. Some technicians learn their skills through on-the-job training or apprenticeships.
Most dental technicians specialize in one type of prosthetic, such as crowns or bridges. However, some technicians are generalists and create a variety of prosthetics.
Dental technicians use a variety of tools and equipment to create dental prosthetics. They may use CAD/CAM systems to create computer-generated models of the prosthetics. They may also use traditional methods, such as plaster casting, to create models. Once the model is created, the technician uses it to create the final prosthetic using materials such as metals, porcelain, or plastic.
Dental technicians typically work in teams with other technicians and with dentists. They may consult with dentists about the design of prosthetics or about changes that need to be made to existing prosthetics. They may also work directly with patients to take impressions or make measurements for custom-fit prosthetics.
Most dental technicians work full time during regular business hours. Some may work evenings or weekends to accommodate customers’ schedules.
They use a variety of tools and materials to create these prosthetics, which are then fitted and installed by the dentist.
Dental lab technicians use a variety of tools and materials to create prosthetics, which are then fitted and installed by the dentist. Their job is to ensure that the prosthetics they create are accurate and fit well.
Dental lab technicians must have a strong attention to detail, as they work with small pieces and need to be precise in their measurements. They must also be able to follow instructions from dentists and other dental professionals.
Education and Training
A dental lab technician is a person who works in a dental laboratory and makes dental prosthetics, such as crowns, bridges, and dentures. Dental lab techs use a variety of tools and materials to create these products. They must be able to follow detailed instructions and work closely with dentists to ensure that the products they create meet the specific needs of each patient.
Dental lab technicians typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Dental lab technicians typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent. They also may receive on-the-job training, although some employers prefer or require candidates who have completed a formal education program. Completing an accredited dental laboratory technology program can improve employment opportunities and lead to higher earnings.
A few states have certification programs for dental laboratory technicians. Although certification is not required, it might be helpful in landing a job and could lead to higher earnings. The National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology (NBC) offers the Certified Dental Technician (CDT) credential. To earn the CDT credential, candidates must pass a written exam and a skills assessment. For more information, visit www.nbccertified.org/.
They also receive on-the-job training, which can last up to a year.
Dental laboratory technicians use materials such as wax, precious metals, alloys, porcelain, acrylic resins, and plastics to make crowns (caps), bridges, dentures, inlays and onlays, implants, veneers, and other dental appliances.
Most dental laboratory technicians learn their trade through an apprenticeship program lasting 2 years. Some community colleges offer certificate or associate degree programs in dental laboratory technology.
High school students interested in becoming a dental laboratory technician can take courses in biology and chemistry. Dental laboratory technicians must have manual dexterity and an eye for detail to be successful in their job.
Skills and Knowledge
Dental lab technicians are artists and skilled professionals who use their knowledge and abilities to create dental appliances from casts that dentists make of their patients’ teeth. Dental technicians usually specialize in one of three areas:
Dental lab technicians need to have good manual dexterity, as they will be working with small tools and delicate materials.
Dental lab technicians need to have good manual dexterity, as they will be working with small tools and delicate materials. They also need to have good color vision, as they need to be able to match colors of teeth and other materials. In addition, they should be able to work well under pressure, as they may need to meet deadlines.
They also need to have good attention to detail, as they need to create prosthetics that look and feel natural.
As a dental lab technician, you will use a variety of tools and techniques to create dental prosthetics, such as crowns, bridges, and dentures. You will need to be able to follow instructions carefully and have a good eye for detail in order to create high-quality products. In addition, you will need to be able to work well with other members of the dental team in order to ensure that the prosthetics fit correctly and are comfortable for the patient.
Salary and Job Outlook
Dental lab technicians make and repair dental appliances in dental laboratories. They use plaster models of patients’ teeth to create custom-fit appliances. They work from models supplied by dentists and from oral impressions.
Dental lab technicians earned a median salary of $35,980 in 2016.
Dental lab technicians use a variety of tools and techniques to create dental prosthetics, such as crowns, bridges, veneers, implants and dentures. They often work closely with dental technicians and dentists to ensure that prosthetics fit comfortably and function properly.
Most dental lab technicians have an associate degree in dental laboratory technology or a related field. Although not required, certification can demonstrate competence and may help lead to employment.
Employment of dental lab technicians is projected to grow 11 percent from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations. An aging population will need more dental work, including more complex procedures that require the expertise of dental lab technicians. In addition, as dentists increasingly take advantage of new technology, employment of dental lab technicians is expected to grow.
The job outlook for dental lab technicians is expected to grow by 21% from 2016 to 2026.
The job outlook for dental lab technicians is expected to grow by 21% from 2016 to 2026, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. The demand for dental services is expected to continue to increase as the population ages and as research continues to link oral health and general health. With more dentists adopting new technologies, such as CAD/CAM systems, the demand for qualified dental laboratory technicians will continue to grow.
