What’s a Dental Technologist?

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A dental technologist, also called a dental technician, provides laboratory support to dentists by producing various dental prostheses such as caps, bridges, and retainers. She may work in a large lab that serves many dentists or work for a single dentist or group of dentists in a smaller lab. A person in this position typically has minimal contact with patients.

Dental technologists who work in laboratories that serve many dentists generally specialize in one or two types of denture construction. Those who work directly for dentists in private practice are typically trained in the construction of all types of prosthetic devices. People in this job occasionally help dentists make adjustments to corrective appliances.

This work typically involves constructing and repairing dentures, including veneers, crowns, caps, dentures, bridges, and retainers worn by patients with braces. A dental technologist regularly works with gold, stainless steel, plastic and porcelain in the manufacture of these devices. She is generally expected to stay informed about new materials used in the construction of dentures for patients who may be sensitive to traditional materials.

When a patient needs a prosthetic device, the dentist presents the prescription to the dental technician. She normally reviews, confirms the specifications, and asks the dentist for clarification if necessary. The dentist traditionally provides the technologist with a wax or plastic impression of the patient’s mouth to ensure the device is constructed properly for a comfortable and secure fit.

A wide variety of tools and machines are used to build prosthetic dental devices. Typically, a dental technologist is required to be proficient in the use of dental furnaces, electric drills, presses, and lathes. Precision cutting and shaping hand tools are typically used to carve and shape the final products.

Excellent attention to detail is usually required to excel in this job. Manual dexterity is usually an advantage, as much of the work requires the use of small electrical devices and hand tools. Steady hands are preferred for manipulating small components used in prosthetic construction. A good eye for color is desirable to ensure dentures match and look as natural as the patient’s original teeth.

Typically, a high school diploma or equivalent is required to be accepted into a dental technology training program. Many junior colleges and technical training institutes offer two-year programs in dental technology. Upon completion of formal training, an aspiring dental technician typically works as an apprentice to a dentist for one to two years before becoming qualified enough to work independently.

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