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Dental Laboratory Technician
Dental technology is the art and science of making and
repairing dental appliances such as dentures, dental crowns, bridges, implants,
and braces. Dental laboratory technicians are similar to pharmacists in that
they fill prescriptions from a dentist. Technicians use materials such as gold,
silver, stainless steel, porcelain, and plastic to make the appliance as
specified by the dentist's prescription.
Work Environment
Dental laboratory technicians may find employment in
commercial laboratories, dental offices, dental supply offices, or in dental
education, training, and research. Many technicians are self-employed.
Job Outlook
The new technologies in prostheses for teeth have enabled
the general population to keep their teeth longer. Employment opportunities for
dental laboratory technicians will continue to rise into the next century as
the population ages.
Length of Training/
Requirements
Dental laboratory technicians attend two-year accredited
programs at a community college, vocational school, technical college, or a
university program that has a dental school. Most students receive a
certificate or an associate degree upon completion of the program.
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Salary
Salary depends on education, geography, job setting, and experience. Current salaries range from $34,000 - $50,000.
Educational Programs
Certificate Programs
Associate/Bachelor's Degrees
Astrodome Dental Careers Center
School of Health Care Sciences - Sheppard Air Force Base
Southwest
Collegiate Institute for the Deaf
Texas
State Technical College - Harlingen
The University of Texas Health Science
Center at San Antonio
Professional Associations
National Association of
Dental Laboratories (NADL)
555 East Braddock Rd.
Alexandria, VA
22314-2106
703/683-5263
National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology
555 East Braddock Rd.
Alexandria, VA 22314-2199
703/683-5310
Texas State Board of Dental Examiners
333 Guadalupe
Tower 3, Ste. 800
Austin, TX 78701-3942
512/463-6400
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