Dental Laboratory Technicians
Specialists who fabricate and repair dental devices such as crowns, dentures, and orthodontic appliances.
Bureau of Labor StatisticsDental Laboratory Technicians are skilled professionals who create prosthetic dental appliances, including bridges, veneers, and braces, using traditional molds or digital impressions. They work primarily in clean, well-ventilated laboratory environments, utilizing a mix of hand tools and 3-D printers to shape materials like ceramic, porcelain, alloy, and plastic.
Professionals in this field require a high school diploma and typically complete two years of accredited education. While licensing is not required, many pursue the Certified Dental Technician (CDT) credential. The role demands high precision, dexterity, and knowledge of dental anatomy to execute technical instructions accurately.
Innovation in this space is highly relevant as the profession integrates CAD software and dental product design tools into their workflow. With approximately 33,920 technicians employed in the U.S., the field is evolving through the adoption of digital fabrication technologies to replace or augment traditional artisan methods.