Over the last few years, the demand for artificial dentures has risen, especially among the aging population and those with gum disease and dental problems. With the ever-increasing number of patients, the need for experienced dental technicians has also increased. But first, what does a dental technician do?

What is a Dental Laboratory Technician?

Dental laboratory technicians, also known as dental technologists, are responsible for designing, constructing, and repairing dental devices. He works in a laboratory environment, combining art, science, and technology to create dental prosthetics such as crowns, dentures, and orthodontic appliances (braces and bridges) for people with dental problems.

A dental technician may specialize in the following areas:

  • Fixed prosthesis including implants, crowns, and bridges that are cemented into place.
  • Removable prosthesis – dentures and removable partial dentures.
  • Maxillofacial prosthesis – reconstruction of faces damaged by accident or disease. Includes ocular prosthesis and craniofacial prosthesis. 
  • Orthodontics – orthodontic devices such as braces or bridges to correct tooth positions and mouthguards. 

By fabricating dental prosthetics that improve or replace the patient’s teeth, he improves their physical and dental health, confidence, and self-esteem so they can smile better in public.

What Does a Dental Laboratory Technician Do?

A dental technician works closely with dentists, orthodontists, and other dental professionals to plan, design, and fabricate dental prostheses according to drawings and measurements from each patient. A dental technician works with various materials such as plastic, ceramics, wax, porcelain, and metals (including gold and stainless steel) to create products according to specifications.

First, the dentist sends a digital or plaster impression (mold) of the patient’s mouth or teeth to the dental technician, who then creates a model of the patient’s mouth (dental cast) by pouring plaster into the impression and allowing it to set.

After creating the model, he places it on an apparatus that mimics the patient’s natural bite and jaw movement. Based on the movement observations and the dentist’s specifications, he builds and shapes a wax model which will be used to cast the metal framework for the missing tooth or teeth.

He prepares the metal framework for bonding with the porcelain or other dental materials by sandblasting. The porcelain is applied in layers until the desired tooth shape and color are achieved. After that, he bakes the porcelain onto the metal framework in a porcelain furnace. The shape and color of the tooth can be adjusted by further grinding and adding porcelain. The completed piece is then sent to the dentist to ensure it fits the patient.

Skills of a Good DLT

Dental laboratory technicians must work with absolute precision, paying attention to the small details to ensure the device comfortably fits the patient. Every prosthetic is tailored to a patient, as each patient is unique in anatomy, so no two pieces can be the same. 

In addition, an experienced dental laboratory technician should have an excellent understanding of dental and facial anatomy to create comfortable and effective devices and know the properties of dental materials.

A high degree of manual dexterity, artistic aptitude, good eyesight, and the ability to recognize color shadings is necessary to create natural-looking prosthetics that are up to specifications. A dental laboratory technician should have modeling, sculpting, casting, polishing, and ceramic work skills.

Conclusion

Due to the ever-increasing cases of dental problems, the demand for experienced dental lab technicians is high. The job market is predicted to grow by 10%.

Varsity lakes dentist specializes in Implant Retained Dentures & Dental Implants. Call ☎ 0755930749.

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