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Dental laboratory technicians create and repair
dentures, bridges, crowns, braces, and other appliances using materials
like gold, silver, stainless steel, porcelain, and plastics according
to dentists' prescriptions.
Precision, a high degree of manual dexterity, good
vision, and the ability to recognize color shadings and variation
in shapes are important traits for this occupation.
Dental
Laboratory Technician
Areas of Specialization
Technicians can specialize in the areas of crowns and bridges, dental
ceramics, partial dentures, complete dentures, and orthodontic appliances.
Work Environment
They work primarily in commercial dental laboratories. Dentists'
offices, dental supply companies, and research facilities are other
choices. They usually work 40-hour weeks in clean, well-lighted,
and well-ventilated areas.
Job Outlook
As of 2006, recent reports project that the number of technicians
in Florida will need to grow by 7% annually. This is due in large
part to the continued exposure of consumers to aesthetic dentistry
and the emergence of the baby boomer population into retirement,
which will increase the need for restorative dentistry.
Length of Training/Requirements
High school graduates may learn the skills through on-the-job training
or in a community college. Academic programs usually require two
years or less to complete and lead to either a certificate or an
associate degree. These programs include both classroom instruction
and "hands-on" practical experience in dental materials,
complete denture techniques, theory in crown and bridge, basic ceramics,
and advanced fixed and removable specialties. A student graduating
from a traditional program which provides both theoretical and applied
skills in the field is a sought after commodity and thus would be
a more attractive candidate for both employment and higher starting
wages.
Advancement
Many technicians are self-employed and own and operate their own
laboratories. There are also opportunities to progress into supervisory
or managerial positions in the larger commercial labs.
Licensure/Certification
Certification is voluntary and available through the National Board
of Certification of the National Association of Dental Laboratories
in one or more of the five specialty areas.
Salary
According to the Florida Agency for Workforce Development, the 2005
median annual earnings for dental technicians in Florida was $32,012.
Updated: 2007 |
