Top 10 Dental Lab Technician Certifications

Certifications are important for dental lab technicians in the job market because they show employers that a technician has the necessary knowledge and skills to do the job. In addition, certifications can make it easier for technicians to find employment as many employers prefer certified technicians. Certifications also indicate that a technician has met industry standards and is qualified to perform certain tasks. Finally, certifications can help dental lab technicians stay up to date on current trends and technology, which helps them remain competitive in the job market.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for Dental Lab Technicians and to explain how these certifications can help to advance a dental lab technician's career.

What are Dental Lab Technician Certifications?

Dental lab technician certification is an official recognition of a person’s skills and knowledge in the field of dental laboratory technology. Certification is typically obtained by passing an exam administered by a recognized certifying body. By becoming certified, a technician demonstrates to employers that they have met the necessary education and experience requirements as well as demonstrated their proficiency in the field.

Having certification can help technicians advance in their careers, increase their earning potential, and provide them with more job opportunities. It is also beneficial for employers who are looking to hire reliable and knowledgeable technicians. Certification helps to ensure that dental lab technicians meet certain standards of quality and safety while working on patients’ teeth.

Dental lab technician certification also provides technicians with access to continuing education courses which can help them stay up to date on new technologies and techniques in the field. This can be particularly useful for those who wish to specialize in certain areas such as prosthetics or ceramic restorations. Finally, certification may also provide access to professional networks which can be invaluable for networking and finding job opportunities.

Pro Tip: If you are considering obtaining dental lab technician certification, make sure to research and understand the specific requirements for certification in your state. Some states may require additional education or training in order to be certified. Additionally, make sure to research the different types of certifications available and find one that best suits your career goals.

Related: What does a Dental Lab Technician do?

Top 10 Dental Lab Technician Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Dental Lab Technicians today.

1. Certified Dental Technician (CDT)

A Certified Dental Technician (CDT) is a professional who has met the standards set by the National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology (NBC). CDTs are skilled technicians who create and repair dental prosthetics, such as crowns, bridges, dentures, orthodontic appliances, and implant-supported restorations. They work closely with dentists to provide patients with quality care and results.

It typically takes two to three years of full-time study to become a CDT. This includes completing an accredited dental technology program and passing the NBC’s certification exam. The cost of becoming a CDT varies depending on the program chosen; however, it can range from $2,000 to $10,000 or more. Additionally, some employers may require additional training or certifications before hiring a CDT.

To become a CDT, you must first complete an accredited dental technology program that meets the standards set by the NBC. After completing your studies, you will need to pass the NBC’s certification exam which covers topics such as materials science, anatomy and physiology, prosthetic fabrication techniques and laboratory management principles. Once you have passed the exam, you will be eligible to apply for certification as a CDT.

The cost of becoming a CDT varies depending on the program chosen; however it can range from $2,000 to $10,000 or more. Additionally some employers may require additional training or certifications before hiring a CDT.

2. Certified Orthodontic Technician (COT)

Certified Orthodontic Technician (COT) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved the highest level of knowledge and skill in the field of orthodontics. The COT certification is awarded by the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). It is an internationally recognized qualification that demonstrates expertise in orthodontic technology.

The COT certification program requires applicants to complete a rigorous course of study and pass a comprehensive exam. The program consists of three courses, which cover topics such as dental anatomy, orthodontic materials, clinical procedures, patient care, and more. The courses are offered online or in-person at various locations throughout the United States.

In order to become certified, applicants must have at least two years of experience working as an orthodontic technician. They must also pass a written exam that covers all aspects of orthodontic technology. Once applicants have successfully completed the program and passed the exam, they will be awarded their COT certification.

The cost for the COT certification program varies depending on where you take it and what type of format you choose (online or in-person). Generally speaking, it costs around $1,500-$2,000 for all three courses plus the exam fee.

Overall, obtaining your Certified Orthodontic Technician (COT) certification can take anywhere from 6 months to 1 year depending on how quickly you complete each course and pass the exam.

3. Certified Prosthodontic Technician (CPT)

A Certified Prosthodontic Technician (CPT) is a professional who specializes in the fabrication of prosthetic devices such as dentures, crowns, bridges, and implants. The CPT works closely with the prosthodontist to create custom-made dental restorations that will fit the patient’s mouth perfectly.

In order to become a CPT, you must have at least two years of experience working in a dental laboratory or as an assistant to a prosthodontist. You must also pass an exam administered by the American Board of Prosthodontics (ABP). The exam consists of both written and practical components.

The cost of taking the CPT exam varies depending on your location and whether you are taking it online or in person. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$600 for the exam fee plus any additional fees for travel or lodging if necessary.

Once you have passed the exam and earned your certification, you will be eligible to practice as a Certified Prosthodontic Technician in all 50 states. Your certification is valid for three years before needing to be renewed.

4. Certified Dental Laboratory Technician (CDLT)

A Certified Dental Laboratory Technician (CDLT) is a professional who specializes in the fabrication of dental prosthetics and appliances. CDLTs are responsible for creating custom-made restorations, such as crowns, bridges, dentures, and orthodontic appliances. They also fabricate implants and other specialized dental products.

It typically takes two years to become a Certified Dental Laboratory Technician (CDLT). This includes completing an accredited program in dental laboratory technology or a related field. After completing the program, applicants must pass the National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology exam to become certified.

To get certified as a CDLT, you must first complete an accredited program in dental laboratory technology or a related field. Once you have completed your studies, you can apply to take the National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology exam. The exam consists of both written and practical components and covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, materials science, fabrication techniques, and quality control procedures.

The cost of becoming a Certified Dental Laboratory Technician (CDLT) varies depending on the institution offering the program and any additional fees associated with taking the certification exam. Generally speaking, it is possible to become certified for around $500-$1000 USD depending on where you study.

5. Certified Ceramic Technician (CCT)

Certified Ceramic Technician (CCT) is a professional certification program offered by the International Ceramic Engineering Association (ICEA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in ceramic engineering and technology.

The CCT program consists of three levels: Certified Ceramic Technician (CCT), Senior Certified Ceramic Technician (SCCT), and Master Certified Ceramic Technician (MCCT). To become certified, applicants must pass an examination that covers topics such as ceramic materials, processing techniques, testing methods, and quality assurance.

The time it takes to become certified varies depending on the individual's experience and knowledge. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from one to two years of study and preparation before taking the exam. Applicants should also be familiar with industry standards and regulations related to ceramic engineering.

To apply for certification, applicants must complete an application form which includes providing proof of education or relevant experience in ceramic technology. The application fee is $250 USD for each level of certification. Once approved, applicants must then take the exam at an ICEA-approved testing center. The cost of the exam is $150 USD per level.

Once all requirements are met, applicants will receive their certificate in the mail within 4-6 weeks after passing the exam. The certificate is valid for three years and can be renewed by submitting additional proof of continuing education or professional development activities related to ceramic technology.

6. Certified Implant Technician (CIT)

Certified Implant Technician (CIT) is a certification program offered by the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI). The CIT program is designed to provide dental professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and effectively place dental implants. The program consists of two components: an online course and a hands-on clinical practicum.

The online course covers topics such as implant anatomy, implant placement techniques, bone grafting, prosthetics, and patient management. It includes lectures, case studies, and quizzes to help students gain a comprehensive understanding of implant dentistry. The course takes approximately 16 hours to complete.

The hands-on clinical practicum requires students to demonstrate their mastery of implant placement techniques in a supervised setting. This component includes observation of experienced practitioners placing implants in patients as well as supervised practice placing implants on models or cadavers.

In order to become certified as an Implant Technician, applicants must have completed at least one year of post-secondary education in the field of dentistry or dental hygiene, have at least two years of experience working in the dental field, pass both components of the CIT program with a score of 80% or higher, and pay all applicable fees.

The cost for the CIT program varies depending on each individual’s circumstances but typically ranges from $2,000 - $3,000 USD.

7. Certified Removable Prosthetic Technician (CRPT)

Certified Removable Prosthetic Technician (CRPT) is a certification that is offered by the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics (ABC). The CRPT certification is designed to recognize those individuals who have acquired the knowledge and skills necessary to fabricate, fit, adjust and repair removable prostheses.

It typically takes approximately two years of experience in the field of removable prosthetics to be eligible for the CRPT certification. To become certified, individuals must complete an ABC-approved educational program and pass a comprehensive written exam.

To get certified as a CRPT, individuals must first complete an accredited educational program. This program typically consists of coursework in anatomy and physiology, fabrication techniques, patient care, and other related topics. Once the educational requirements are met, individuals must then apply to take the ABC's written examination. Upon successful completion of this exam, individuals will receive their CRPT certification.

The cost of becoming certified as a CRPT varies depending on the individual's education program and other fees associated with taking the exam. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$2,000 to become certified as a CRPT.

8. Certified Crown and Bridge Technician (CCBT)

Certified Crown and Bridge Technician (CCBT) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a certain level of knowledge and experience in the field of dental laboratory technology. This certification is offered through the National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology (NBCDLT).

To become a Certified Crown and Bridge Technician, an individual must complete a series of courses that cover topics such as anatomy, physiology, materials science, fabrication techniques, and laboratory management. Upon completion of these courses, an individual must pass the NBCDLT’s written exam. Once the exam is passed, an individual will be eligible to receive their CCBT certification.

The entire process typically takes about 6 months to complete. The cost of the program varies depending on the number of courses taken and other factors. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$2,000 for the entire program.

In addition to completing coursework and passing the written exam, individuals must also maintain their certification by taking continuing education classes every two years. This ensures that technicians remain up-to-date on new developments in dental technology and stay abreast of changes in industry standards.

9. Certified Waxer/Modeler/Finisher (CWF)

Certified Waxer/Modeler/Finisher (CWF) is a certification program that provides certification to individuals who demonstrate the ability to properly wax, model, and finish dental prosthetics. The program is designed to ensure that the highest standards of quality are met when working with dental prosthetics.

In order to become certified as a CWF, an individual must complete a comprehensive course of study in waxing, modeling, and finishing dental prosthetics. This course typically consists of classroom instruction, hands-on training, and an exam. Depending on the provider offering the course, it can take anywhere from one week to several months to complete the program.

The cost of becoming certified as a CWF varies depending on the provider offering the program. Generally speaking, most programs will cost between $500 and $1,500 USD.

In addition to completing the coursework and passing the exam, individuals must also submit proof of licensure in their state or country in order to become certified as a CWF. Once all requirements have been met and approved by the certifying body, individuals will receive their certification card which they can use to demonstrate their expertise in waxing, modeling, and finishing dental prosthetics.

10. Certified Digital Dental Technician (CDDT)

A Certified Digital Dental Technician (CDDT) is a professional who has met the criteria established by the National Board for Certification in Dental Technology (NBCDT). The CDDT certification is designed to recognize those individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in digital dental technology.

The CDDT certification requires applicants to have at least two years of experience working with digital dental technology, as well as passing an examination administered by the NBCDT. The exam consists of both written and practical components and covers topics such as CAD/CAM systems, 3D printing, scanning, material selection and processing, and other related topics.

In order to become certified, applicants must submit an application along with proof of experience and pay a fee. After submitting the application, applicants will receive an eligibility letter from the NBCDT which will include instructions on how to register for the exam. Once registered for the exam, applicants will have 90 days to take it before their eligibility expires.

The cost of taking the CDDT exam is $550 USD. This fee includes all materials needed to take the exam as well as access to online resources that can help prepare for it.

Do You Really Need a Dental Lab Technician Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on what your career goals are. If you want to become a dental lab technician, then yes, you will need a dental lab technician certificate. This certificate demonstrates that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the tasks expected of a dental lab technician.

The certificate is typically obtained through an accredited college or university program, apprenticeship, or other training program. The curriculum includes courses in anatomy and physiology, prosthodontics, materials and techniques used in dentistry, and other related topics. Having this certification will help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs as a dental lab technician.

In addition to providing proof of your qualifications for the job, having a certificate can also help open up doors for further education and career advancement opportunities down the road. With more experience and additional certifications or degrees, you may be able to advance into managerial roles or even open your own practice one day.

In conclusion, if you want to become a dental lab technician then it’s highly recommended that you obtain a certificate in order to prove your knowledge and skills necessary for the job.

Related: Dental Lab Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Dental Lab Technician Certifications

1. What certifications do I need to become a dental lab technician?

Answer: To become a dental lab technician, you will need to obtain a certificate or degree from an accredited program in dental technology or related field. You may also need to complete additional certification exams in order to be eligible for certain positions.

2. How long does it take to get certified as a dental lab technician?

Answer: The time it takes to obtain certification as a dental lab technician depends on the type of certification you are pursuing, and can range from 6 months to 2 years.

3. Are there any special requirements for becoming a certified dental lab technician?

Answer: Yes, depending on the type of certification you are pursuing, there may be additional requirements such as clinical experience or passing an exam in order to qualify for the certification.

4. Is there an age limit for obtaining a dental lab technician certification?

Answer: No, there is no age limit for obtaining a dental lab technician certification.

5. How much does it cost to get certified as a dental lab technician?

Answer: The cost of obtaining certification as a dental lab technician varies depending on the type of program and certifying body you choose, but typically ranges from $500-$3000 USD.