Dental Technician
Job Summary
The Dental Technician is responsible for designing, constructing, repairing, and modifying dental prosthetics, including crowns, bridges, dentures, veneers, implants, orthodontic appliances, and other dental devices. This role requires precision, attention to detail, technical expertise, and the ability to work with both traditional laboratory techniques and modern CAD/CAM systems.
Key Responsibilities
- Fabricate dental prosthetics such as crowns, bridges, dentures, veneers, and implant restorations.
- Construct orthodontic appliances, retainers, mouthguards, and splints.
- Read and interpret dental prescriptions and impressions provided by dentists.
- Create wax models, molds, and casts for dental restorations.
- Operate dental laboratory equipment, including CAD/CAM software, milling machines, 3D printers, and porcelain furnaces.
- Repair, adjust, and reline existing dental prostheses.
- Ensure all dental appliances meet quality, fit, and aesthetic standards.
- Maintain accurate records of laboratory cases and production schedules.
- Follow infection control, health, safety, and laboratory quality procedures.
- Collaborate with dentists and other laboratory staff to resolve technical issues and achieve optimal patient outcomes.
- Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure proper inventory of materials and supplies.
Qualifications
- Diploma, certificate, or associate degree in Dental Technology or a related field.
- Certification or registration (where required by local regulations).
- Experience in a dental laboratory is preferred.
- Knowledge of dental anatomy, occlusion, and dental materials.
- Proficiency in CAD/CAM systems and digital dentistry is an advantage.
Required Skills
- Excellent manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
- Technical and artistic skills for creating natural-looking restorations.
- Knowledge of dental laboratory materials such as ceramics, acrylics, metals, and composite resins.
- Ability to operate laboratory machinery and digital design software.
- Good organizational and time management skills.
- Problem-solving and analytical abilities.
- Effective communication and teamwork skills.