How to Be Dental Laboratory Technician Trainee - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Feb 20, 2022 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Dental laboratory technician trainees are responsible for creating and repairing dental prosthetics under the supervision of a qualified dental technician. With the proper training and experience, these technicians can help to improve the patient's oral health and quality of life. As a result, they can play an important role in providing high quality dental care.

dental laboratory technician trainees can lead to improved patient satisfaction, as they are able to provide accurate and timely repair of prosthetics in a more efficient manner. Furthermore, their expertise can help to reduce costs for both dentists and patients, as well as reduce the need for additional visits to the dentist. dental laboratory technician trainees can provide a valuable service to both dentists and patients, leading to improved oral health and overall quality of life.

Steps How to Become

Earn a High School Diploma. The first step to becoming a dental laboratory technician trainee is to earn a high school diploma. Individuals without a diploma may still be considered for the position, but having a high school diploma or equivalent is preferred.
Complete an Educational Program. Many employers require dental laboratory technician trainees to have at least a certificate or an associate degree in dental technology or a related field. There are several colleges, universities, and technical schools that offer programs in this area of study. Students can expect to learn about dental anatomy, materials, and fabrication processes.
Gain Work Experience. Employers prefer candidates who have some experience in the dental field or related field. This experience can be gained through volunteer work, shadowing a dental technician, or working as an assistant in a dental laboratory.
Become Licensed. Depending on the state, there may be licensing requirements for dental laboratory technicians. Licensing requirements typically include successful completion of a state-approved program and passing an exam, such as the Certified Dental Technician (CDT) exam.
Begin Training. Once all the necessary qualifications have been met, the individual can begin training as a dental laboratory technician trainee. During this time, the trainee will learn the basics of dental technology, such as reading and interpreting prescriptions from dentists, fabricating prostheses, and taking impressions. They will also be supervised by an experienced technician and will gain hands-on experience working in a laboratory setting.
Complete On-the-Job Training. Most employers require dental laboratory technician trainees to complete on-the-job training before they can become full-fledged technicians. This training includes learning the specific techniques used by the lab and gaining experience with different types of materials and equipment used in the lab.
Get Certified. After completing on-the-job training, dental laboratory technician trainees can pursue certification status with the National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology (NBC). This certification demonstrates to employers that the individual is knowledgeable and skilled in the field of dental technology.

As a Dental Laboratory Technician Trainee, it is essential to stay ahead and remain capable. To achieve this, one must constantly update their skillset, be proactive in learning new techniques, and keep up with the latest trends in the field. Keeping abreast of the latest developments in the industry through continuing education, attending conferences and seminars, and networking with other professionals is key.

it is important to stay organized and efficient in order to maximize productivity. By investing time and effort in improving ones skills and knowledge, a Dental Laboratory Technician Trainee can ensure they are able to keep up with the ever-evolving dental industry.

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Job Description

Fabricate and repair dental prostheses, such as crowns, bridges, dentures, and orthodontic appliances.
Read and interpret prescriptions from dentists.
Design, form, cast, and finish metal and plastic dental prostheses.
Operate dental laboratory equipment, such as lathes, grinders, presses, and dental furnaces.
Select materials such as metals, alloys, acrylics, and waxes to fabricate dental prostheses.
Examine models of patients teeth and jaws to determine shape and size of dental prostheses needed.
Modify dental prostheses to fit patients mouth and jaw accurately.
Prepare molds of patients teeth or mouth and pour plaster castings for making dental prostheses.
Maintain and sharpen dental laboratory tools and instruments.
Clean and sterilize dental laboratory tools and instruments.
Keep accurate records of dental prostheses manufactured or repaired.
Train new laboratory technicians or assistants in the use of equipment, techniques, and materials.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of dental anatomy and physiology
Knowledge of dental materials and procedures
Knowledge of dental laboratory operations
Knowledge of dental prostheses and appliances
Understanding of dental laboratory safety and health regulations
Ability to use dental laboratory equipment safely and effectively
Ability to read and interpret dental laboratory prescriptions
Excellent manual dexterity and fine motor skills
Ability to fabricate dental prostheses and appliances
Ability to take impressions, cast models, and fabricate dentures
Ability to troubleshoot problems and make necessary adjustments
Ability to work independently and efficiently with minimal supervision
Ability to communicate effectively with team members
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
Ability to adhere to deadlines
Computer literacy (ability to use software for design, CAD/CAM, etc. )

Having a keen eye for detail is essential for a successful Dental Laboratory Technician Trainee. This skill is essential in order to accurately craft dental prosthetics, like crowns, bridges, dentures, and implants. Being able to recognize and identify even the smallest of flaws in the materials that are used in the fabrication of these prosthetics is a must.

Furthermore, the ability to read and interpret dental prescriptions accurately is a must-have skill. This involves understanding not only the technical terminology used in these prescriptions but also the anatomical landmarks that are used to ensure the prosthetics are crafted properly to fit the patient's mouth. having a good understanding of dental laboratory equipment and processes is necessary for a successful Dental Laboratory Technician Trainee.

Being able to quickly set up and operate the equipment correctly is critical in order to produce quality prosthetics in a timely manner. All of these skills combined will ensure that Dental Laboratory Technician Trainees can become successful in their roles and provide the best possible service to their patients.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working in a dental laboratory?
What do you know about the dental laboratory technician profession?
What safety measures do you take when handling dangerous materials?
How do you ensure accuracy when creating dental prosthetics?
What methods do you use to stay organized in a laboratory setting?
How do you handle difficult clients?
What techniques do you use to ensure the accuracy of your work?
Describe a time when you had to troubleshoot an unexpected problem in a laboratory setting.
What skills do you possess that make you an ideal candidate for this position?
How do you stay up-to-date on the latest techniques and technologies used in dental laboratories?

Common Tools in Industry

Wax Carving Instruments. Used to shape and sculpt wax into the desired form for dental prosthetics. (eg: Bench Knife, Spatula, Wax Carver)
Porcelain Furnace. Utilized to heat and fuse porcelain material for dental prosthetics. (eg: A-I Furnace, Porcelain Oven)
Dental Lathe. Used to trim and shape dental prostheses. (eg: High-Speed Lathe, Trim Lathe)
Casting Machine. Used to create a mold of a patient's teeth and pour metal into the mold to create a dental prosthesis. (eg: Induction Casting Machine, Vacuum Casting Machine)
Finishing Tools. Used to refine and buff the surface of a dental prosthesis. (eg: Polishing Wheels, Rubber Wheels, Sanding Discs)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Dental Technicians Association
National Association of Dental Laboratories
National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology
Academy of Dental Laboratory Technology
Dental Laboratory Association of California
Dental Laboratory Association of Florida
American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
International Congress of Oral Implantologists
American Association of Orthodontists
American College of Prosthodontists

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Common Important Terms

Dental Prosthetics. A dental prosthetic is a medical device designed to replace missing teeth, or to restore the function of the mouth.
Dental Prosthodontics. Dental prosthodontics is a branch of dentistry that deals with the restoration of missing or damaged teeth with the use of prostheses such as crowns, bridges, and dentures.
Dental Implantology. Dental implantology is a branch of dentistry that deals with the placement and restoration of dental implants in order to replace missing or damaged teeth.
Dental Ceramics. Dental ceramics are materials used in dental prosthetics that are made from ceramic compounds and are designed to look and feel like natural teeth.
Digital Dentistry. Digital dentistry is the use of computer-aided design, imaging and manufacturing technologies to create and restore dental structures, such as crowns and bridges.
Dentures. Dentures are artificial teeth made from acrylic or other materials that are used to replace missing teeth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the duties of a Dental Laboratory Technician Trainee?

Duties of a Dental Laboratory Technician Trainee include fabricating, repairing, and finishing dental prosthetics such as crowns, bridges, dentures, and orthodontic appliances; creating custom dental devices from models or impressions; and performing quality control and maintenance of lab equipment.

What qualifications are required to become a Dental Laboratory Technician Trainee?

Generally, applicants for Dental Laboratory Technician Trainee positions need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete an apprenticeship or on-the-job training program. In some cases, a technical school diploma or certification may be required.

What is the average salary of a Dental Laboratory Technician Trainee?

According to PayScale, the average salary for a Dental Laboratory Technician Trainee is $36,104 per year.

What is the job outlook for a Dental Laboratory Technician Trainee?

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that employment of dental laboratory technicians will grow 11% from 2018-2028, which is faster than average compared to other occupations.

What are some common challenges faced by Dental Laboratory Technician Trainees?

Common challenges faced by Dental Laboratory Technician Trainees include mastering the use of different types of materials, understanding dental anatomy and terminology, and working within tight deadlines.