A dental technician makes a variety of appliances such as dentures, crowns, veneers and prostheses from molds or digital impressions of a patient's mouth and teeth. They work primarily in dental laboratories, dentists' offices and commercial manufacturing companies. In most cases, the best way to become a dental technician is to get an associates' degree in the field. Dental technicians also have the option of becoming certified, which can open a broader range of career opportunities. After finding a position, most dental technicians complete an on-the-job training program to learn specific techniques and procedures.
Part of the process to become a dental technician is to choose a specialty. Some work on all types of dental appliances, and others focus exclusively on creating one specific thing, such as full or partial dentures, bridges, crowns or orthodontic appliances. All of the specialties require working with a variety of materials, such as porcelain, metals and plastics. The devices that dental techs create must fit perfectly in patients' mouths and match the color, shape and size of the existing teeth. Dental technicians use a variety of tools in their work, such as grinding and cutting machines and high-heat porcelain ovens.
Sometimes it is possible to become a dental technician by learning on the job, and there is no need for formal schooling. Educational programs are available, however, that combine classroom instruction and hands-on learning. Some examples of coursework include dental anatomy, dental health and safety, fabrication procedures, chair-side procedures and dental radiography. Community colleges, vocational schools, technical schools and dental schools might offer degrees in dental laboratory technology or a similar field. When choosing a program, it might be helpful to know whether it is accredited.
After completing schooling to become a dental technician, some people might choose to become certified. This process entails taking a test given by a governing body, such as the National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology. Although certification is not a requirement, it might be helpful for those wishing to improve a résumé or advance their careers. In order to take the exam, a dental tech must have a degree from an accredited program and at least two years of professional experience in the field.
After receiving an advanced degree, the next step if you want to become a dental technician is to find a job. There are a variety of career paths open in this growing field. Dental technicians can work in commercial laboratories or dentists' offices. Some experienced dental technicians might eventually open independent labs or become instructors in dental education programs.
