What does a Dental Lab Technician do?
Published 3 min read
A dental lab technician is a person who works in a laboratory and makes dental prosthetics, such as crowns, bridges, and dentures.
Dental Lab Technician job duties include:
- Read prescriptions and specifications received from dentist.
- Select materials and colors of dental prosthetics.
- Mix plaster, putty, or other materials to make impressions of patient's teeth.
- Pour plaster casts or models of teeth from impressions.
- Trim, file, grind, sand, and polish dental prosthetics.
- Repair cracked or chipped dental prosthetics.
- Make custom dental prosthetics from molds.
- Install veneers and inlays using adhesives.
- Test fit dentures and other dental prosthetics on patients.
Dental Lab Technician Job Requirements
Dental Lab Technician job requirements include completing a dental lab technology program at a community college or technical school and becoming certified by the National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology. Many employers also require 1-2 years of experience working in a dental lab.
Dental Lab Technician Skills
- Dental
- Lab
- Technician
- Skills
1. Communication
2. Interpersonal
3. Organizational
4. Time Management
5. Customer Service
6. Detail Oriented
7. Quality Control
8. Safety Procedures
9. Infection Control
10. Equipment Maintenance
11. Dental Materials Knowledge
12. Artistic Ability
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How to become a Dental Lab Technician
A dental lab technician is someone who makes dental prosthetics, such as crowns, bridges, and dentures. They work closely with dentists and other dental professionals to make sure that the prosthetics they create fit well and look natural.
Becoming a dental lab technician requires completing a formal education program. Many community colleges offer programs in dental laboratory technology, which typically take two years to complete. Some technicians may also choose to earn a four-year degree in dental technology.
After completing an education program, most states require dental lab technicians to be licensed. Licensing requirements vary by state but usually include passing an exam. Some states also require continuing education credits to maintain a license.
Once you have completed your education and obtained licensure, you can begin working as a dental lab technician. Many technicians start out working in small laboratories or as assistants to more experienced technicians. With experience, you may be able to advance to positions with more responsibility, such as lead technician or manager of a laboratory.
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