How Do I Become a Dental Lab Technician?

A high school diploma, a desire to learn, and the ability to pay close attention to detail are usually the only requirements for becoming a dental lab technician. The majority of dental lab technicians have never worked in a dental office or in a lab. A high school science and math background is usually preferred, but not always required. Typically, becoming a dental lab technician requires only an application and a willingness to work your way up within the lab.

Precise motor skills, strong communication skills, and the ability to be flexible and work independently are all essential skills for dental laboratory technicians. Most dental labs have a number of technicians, but each one works on his or her own projects. Dentists send work orders for crowns, bridges, and other dental fixtures, which the lab supervisor assigns to dental lab techs, who then get to work. Any questions or concerns are usually addressed directly with the dentist the technician.

The most common way to become a dental lab technician is to simply look for and apply for jobs. Most dental labs will hire dental lab technicians with no prior experience in the hopes of training them on the job. Learning to pour molds, customizing crowns and other dental appliances to fit specific teeth, and coordinating production and delivery with dental office staff are all part of dental lab training.

Working as a dental laboratory technician in a dentist’s office is uncommon. The majority of laboratories are self-contained. In some cases, you can work directly for a dentist as a dental lab technician, especially in smaller, more remote areas, but in most cases, you will need to apply directly to the lab.

The field of dental laboratory technician is usually one that allows for some advancement. When you first start as a dental lab technician, you may find yourself working more as a lab assistant than a technician. However, with experience and evidence of hard work, you are likely to advance quickly.

If you know that you want to work as a dental lab technician for the foreseeable future, you should look into what advanced technician courses or certifications are available in your area. Many dental schools and trade schools offer one-year dental lab technician training programs, with the majority of them leading to an associate’s degree or other competency certificate. Some locations offer optional certification for both technicians and labs. While certification and education are not required to begin working as a dental lab technician, pursuing them later in your career can help you advance and grow.