Summary
Quick Facts: Dental Laboratory Technicians | |
---|---|
$35,140 per year
$16.90 per hour |
|
High school diploma or equivalent | |
None | |
Moderate-term on-the-job training | |
40,900 | |
1% (Little or no change) | |
300 |
What Dental Laboratory Technicians Do
Dental laboratory technicians use impressions, or molds, of a patient’s teeth to create crowns, bridges, dentures, and other dental appliances. They work closely with dentists but have limited contact with patients.
Work Environment
Dental laboratory technicians generally work in clean, well-lit, and well-ventilated laboratories.
How to Become a Dental Laboratory Technician
There are no postsecondary education requirements to become a dental laboratory technician, but most have at least a high school diploma. Technicians usually learn their skills on the job.
Pay
The median annual wage of dental laboratory technicians was $35,140 in May 2010.
Job Outlook
Employment of dental laboratory technicians is expected to experience little or no change from 2010 to 2020. Baby boomers and their children are more likely than previous generations to retain their teeth. This could lead to a decrease in the number of full and partial dentures and other prosthetics used to replace missing teeth.
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Contacts for More Information
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