Dental Laboratory Technician

Dental laboratory technicians work in a dental laboratory, where they design and construct dental prosthetics, such as dentures, bridges, and crowns. These prosthetics are used to replace missing teeth or to restore the function of damaged teeth. Dental laboratory technicians may also work with maxillofacial appliances, which are used to treat a variety of oral and facial deformities.

Skills and Knowledge

Dental laboratory technicians must have a strong understanding of human anatomy and physiology, especially the structure and function of the mouth and teeth. They must also be proficient in the use of a variety of dental materials and equipment. In addition, dental laboratory technicians must be able to work independently and as part of a team, and they must be able to follow detailed instructions.

Day-to-Day Work

The day-to-day work of a dental laboratory technician can vary depending on the size and type of laboratory in which they work. In a small laboratory, a dental laboratory technician may be responsible for all aspects of the fabrication of a dental prosthetic, from the initial design to the final fitting. In a larger laboratory, a dental laboratory technician may specialize in a particular aspect of the fabrication process, such as the design of the prosthetic or the construction of the prosthetic.

Education and Training

Most dental laboratory technicians are trained through a combination of formal education and on-the-job training. Formal education programs in dental laboratory technology are typically offered at community colleges and trade schools. These programs typically last two to three years and cover a variety of topics, including human anatomy and physiology, dental materials and equipment, and the fabrication of dental prosthetics. On-the-job training is typically provided by experienced dental laboratory technicians.

Career Advancement

With experience, dental laboratory technicians can advance to positions such as lead technician or laboratory manager. Some dental laboratory technicians may also choose to start their own business.

Personal Growth

Dental laboratory technicians can experience a great deal of personal growth in their careers. They can learn new skills and techniques, and they can take on more responsibilities as they advance in their careers. Dental laboratory technicians can also find satisfaction in knowing that they are helping people to improve their oral health.

Personality Traits and Interests

People who are successful in this career tend to be detail-oriented, have good hand-eye coordination, and be able to work independently. They also tend to be creative and have a strong interest in science and technology.

Projects

Dental laboratory technicians may work on a variety of projects throughout their careers. These projects may include the fabrication of dentures, bridges, crowns, and other dental prosthetics. Dental laboratory technicians may also work on the development of new dental materials and techniques.

Self-Guided Projects

There are a number of self-guided projects that students can complete to better prepare themselves for a career as a dental laboratory technician. These projects may include researching different dental materials and equipment, practicing the fabrication of dental prosthetics, and volunteering in a dental laboratory.

Online Courses

Online courses can be a great way to learn about the field of dental laboratory technology. These courses can provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in this career. Online courses can also help students to prepare for the certification exams that are required to become a dental laboratory technician.

Online courses can teach students about the different materials and techniques used in dental laboratory technology. They can also provide students with opportunities to practice the fabrication of dental prosthetics. In addition, online courses can help students to develop the skills they need to work independently and as part of a team.

While online courses can be a helpful learning tool, they are not enough to prepare someone for a career as a dental laboratory technician. Dental laboratory technicians must also complete formal education and on-the-job training. However, online courses can help students to get a head start on their education and to prepare for the challenges of this career.