Like most people, you probably think of dentists when you think of teeth. But what about the people who make dental appliances and repairs? Who are they, and what is their job? That’s where dental lab technicians come in. They create everything from dentures to crowns to orthodontic braces using molds of patients’ teeth. It’s a fascinating process and one that’s vitally important to the dental industry. So if you’re curious about what goes on in a dental lab, keep reading.
Pro-Art Dental Lab is one of the top-rated dentistry labs in Toronto, Ontario. They provide their patients with gorgeous smiles and a comfortable environment.
Main Job of the Dental Lab Technician?
The main job of the dental lab technician is to create dental appliances and repairs using molds of patients’ teeth. This can include everything from dentures and crowns to orthodontic braces. To do this, technicians must have a strong understanding of dental anatomy and different materials’ properties. They also need to use a variety of tools and equipment.
While the job of a dental lab technician is primarily focused on creating dental appliances, they may also be responsible for other tasks such as cleaning and maintaining equipment, ordering supplies, and keeping records. In some cases, technicians may also be involved in customer service or sales.
Pro-Art Dental Lab has well-qualified technicians that are the best in their jobs and design each smile to complement the right face.
Duties of a Dental Lab Technician
Some of the duties of a dental lab technician include cleaning and maintaining equipment, ordering supplies, keeping records, and creating dental appliances. They may also be involved in customer service or sales. To do their job effectively, technicians must have a strong understanding of dental anatomy and different materials’ properties. They also need to use a variety of tools and equipment.
What Type of Training is Necessary to Become a Dental Lab Technician?
Although some may have completed a post-secondary training program, most dental lab technicians have at least a high school diploma. Many technicians learn their trade through on-the-job training. Some states require dental lab technicians to be licensed, and certification is available from the National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology.
Dental Lab Technicians Earning
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for dental lab technicians was $37,780 in 2018. Salaries can vary depending on experience, education, and location.
Prospects for Career Growth as a Dental Lab Technician
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment for dental lab technicians will grow 11 percent from 2018 to 2028, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is partly due to an aging population and the increasing prevalence of dental diseases. As more people seek dental care, there will be a greater need for dental appliances and repairs, which will, in turn, create more job opportunities for dental lab technicians.
Challenges Faced by Dental Lab Technicians
One of the challenges faced by dental lab technicians is the need to keep up with new technology. As dental technology advances, technicians must be able to use new methods and materials to create dental appliances. They also need to be able to work with CAD/CAM (computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing) systems, which are increasingly being used in the dental industry. Another challenge technicians face is the possibility of exposure to hazardous materials, such as dust from grinding teeth. To protect themselves, technicians must follow safety protocols.
