What is a dental laboratory technician job?
A dental laboratory technician job is a skilled position that involves creating dental prosthetics, such as dentures, crowns, bridges, and orthodontic appliances. These professionals work in dental laboratories and use specialized equipment to craft custom-made dental products that are designed to meet the specific needs of individual patients.
What do dental laboratory technicians usually do in this position?
Dental laboratory technicians are responsible for creating dental prosthetics that are designed to fit perfectly in a patient's mouth. They use a variety of tools and techniques to create these products, including molds, wax models, and computer-aided design (CAD) programs. In addition to creating prosthetics, dental laboratory technicians may also repair and adjust existing dental appliances.
Top 5 skills for the position
- Attention to detail
- Manual dexterity
- Strong communication skills
- Ability to follow precise instructions
- Good problem-solving skills
How to become a dental laboratory technician
To become a dental laboratory technician, you typically need to complete a postsecondary program in dental laboratory technology. These programs are available at community colleges, vocational schools, and technical institutes. In addition to formal education, many dental laboratory technicians receive on-the-job training to gain practical experience in the field.
Average salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for dental laboratory technicians was $40,440 in May 2020. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $24,880, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $65,560.
Roles and types
There are several different roles and types of dental laboratory technicians, including:
- Removable Prosthodontics Technician
- Fixed Prosthodontics Technician
- Ceramist
- Orthodontic Technician
- Implant Technician
Each of these roles requires specific skills and knowledge, and may involve working with different types of dental appliances.
Locations with the most popular jobs in the USA
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the states with the highest employment levels for dental laboratory technicians are:
- California
- Florida
- New York
- Texas
- Pennsylvania
What are the typical tools used by dental laboratory technicians?
Dental laboratory technicians use a variety of tools and equipment to create dental prosthetics, including:
- Dental casting machines
- Dental lathes
- Dental milling machines
- Dental scanners
- Hand tools, such as pliers and spatulas
In conclusion
Dental laboratory technicians play a critical role in the dental industry by creating custom-made dental prosthetics that help patients improve their oral health and quality of life. These skilled professionals must have excellent attention to detail, manual dexterity, and strong communication skills to succeed in this field. If you're interested in pursuing a career as a dental laboratory technician, consider completing a postsecondary program in dental laboratory technology and gaining practical experience through on-the-job training.