Dental technology is the art and science of making and repairing dental appliances such as veneers, dentures, dental crowns, bridges, implants, and braces. Dental laboratory technicians are similar to pharmacists in that they fill prescriptions from a dentist. Technicians use materials such as gold, silver, stainless steel, porcelain, and plastic to make an appliance as specified by the dentist’s prescription.

Areas of Specialization
Dental laboratory technicians who are certified may specialize in one or more of the following areas: ceramics, orthodontics, complete dentures, crowns and bridges, or partial dentures.


Work Environment
Dental laboratory technicians may work in dental education, training or research in commercial laboratories, dental offices, dental supply companies, hospitals and dental schools. Many technicians are self employed and work for several dentists. The typical lab has five to ten technicians.