| Dental
Laboratory Technology
Career Profile -- What does a dental laboratory
technician (DLT) do?
- Creates replacements for natural teeth and
corrective devices by following a dentist's written
instructions
- Fabricates dentures, bridges, crowns and orthodontic
appliances
- Works with a variety of materials such as waxes,
plastics, precious and non-precious alloys, porcelains and
others to fabricate dental restorations and tooth
replacements
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Employment -- Where do dental laboratory technicians
work?
- Commercial dental laboratories
- Dental offices, dental schools, hospitals, military
facilities
- Self-employment as laboratory owners/operators
- Dental manufacturers and suppliers
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Education -- How much training is needed?
- College level education is encouraged, but careers can
begin without college level courses through
on-the-job-training in dental laboratories or dental offices
- Some DLT's receive training through two year
accredited programs
- There are approximately 30
ADA accredited dental technology education programs
in community colleges, technical colleges and dental schools
in U.S.
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Outlook -- What are future opportunities?
- Currently there is a great demand for dental
laboratory technicians
- Owning your own business (laboratory owner) is often
an option
- Dental laboratory technology offers excellent career
opportunities for nontraditional students (including
individuals who are over 23 years of age, those seeking a
career change or reentry and individuals from culturally
diverse backgrounds)
- Compensation depends on responsibilities, geographic
location and other factors
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