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

Aug 19, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Denturist laboratory technicians are responsible for creating and repairing dentures, which are a type of oral prosthesis used to replace missing teeth. They use a variety of tools and materials to fabricate dentures, including casts, molds, and waxes. Their work is critical in helping patients achieve a natural-looking smile and improved oral health.

As the demand for dentures rises, so does the need for denturist laboratory technicians. With their expertise, they can ensure that dentures are properly fitted and comfortable for the patient. This can have a significant impact on the patient's overall quality of life, as well as their self-confidence.

Furthermore, having the right dentures can improve a patient's oral health, allowing them to chew more effectively and reducing their risk of developing oral diseases.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or GED. Denturist laboratory technicians typically need a high school diploma or equivalent to become employed in the field.
Take college-level classes in dentistry. Most denturist laboratory technicians earn at least an associate degree in dental technology or a related field. Some four-year programs in dental technology are also available.
Gain clinical experience. Many programs require students to gain practical experience through internships or hands-on training in a clinical setting.
Become certified in dental technology. Certification is not required to work as a denturist laboratory technician, but it is a good way to demonstrate knowledge and skills in the field.
Obtain a license. Depending on the state in which you plan to practice, you may need to obtain licensing and certification from the states dental board or similar organization.
Pursue continuing education. In order to stay up-to-date with the most recent technology and techniques, denturist laboratory technicians should stay involved in continuing education opportunities.

It is essential for Denturist Laboratory Technicians to stay updated and competent in order to provide the best possible care to their patients. To do this, they must stay up to date on the latest advances in materials and techniques used in denture fabrication. This can be accomplished through attending continuing education courses and conferences, reading professional journals, and networking with peers.

they must be familiar with the rules and regulations that govern the practice of denturism in their jurisdiction. Finally, staying up to date on the technological advancements in laboratory equipment will help them remain competitive and maximize their efficiency. By continuously investing in their own professional development, Denturist Laboratory Technicians can ensure they are providing the highest quality of care for their patients.

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Job Description

Fabricate dentures, partials and other removable dental appliances according to dentists prescriptions and patient needs.
Take impressions of patients teeth and gums to create models used for making dental prostheses.
Create wax rims and arrange teeth to create a model of the patients mouth.
Remove excess wax and finish prostheses to create a precise fit.
Fit and adjust prostheses to ensure proper fit and comfort.
Repair and adjust dentures, partials and other removable dental appliances.
Prepare teeth for crowns, bridges, and veneers.
Maintain dental laboratory equipment and supplies.
Assemble and repair dental appliances using hand tools, lathes, grinders, drills, and other equipment.
Monitor inventory and order supplies as needed.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of denture materials and fabrication techniques
Understanding of denture laboratory equipment and tools
Ability to read and interpret dental prescriptions
Proficiency in taking accurate impressions
Ability to fabricate and repair dentures
Knowledge of dental anatomy and terminology
Ability to wax and cast dentures
Understanding of dental laboratory safety protocols
Knowledge of infection prevention and control procedures
Ability to communicate effectively with dentists, patients, and other dental professionals

Having a good set of skills is essential for a Denturist Laboratory Technician. The ability to effectively communicate with patients and colleagues, maintain accurate records and follow laboratory protocols, and have a strong understanding of the products and procedures used in the laboratory are all important factors that contribute to success in this role. Good attention to detail, problem solving and organizational skills are also key components of the job, as it requires the technician to perform precise and intricate work.

In addition, since the technician will be interacting with a variety of medical professionals, having excellent customer service skills is also essential for success. Without these skills, a Denturist Laboratory Technician will not be able to effectively fulfill their duties, leading to potential delays and errors in exams, treatments and diagnoses.

Denturist Clinic Manager, Denturist Customer Service Representative, and Denturist Product Designer are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working in a Denturist Laboratory Technician role?
What do you know about the procedures and techniques used in a Denturist Laboratory?
How would you handle a difficult situation involving a customer or colleague in the Denturist Laboratory?
What have you done to ensure quality control in the Denturist Laboratory?
How do you stay up to date with the latest advancements in Denturist Laboratory technology?
What strategies do you employ to prioritize tasks and remain organized in a Denturist Laboratory setting?
How do you troubleshoot and diagnose equipment issues in a Denturist Laboratory?
What safety protocols do you follow in the Denturist Laboratory?
How do you communicate effectively with other members of the team in a Denturist Laboratory?
What are your goals for the future as a Denturist Laboratory Technician?

Common Tools in Industry

Ceramics furnace. Used for baking and hardening ceramic dentures. (eg: Used to bake and cure dentures made from wax and ceramic material. )
Vacuum former. Used to shape acrylic materials into denture models. (eg: Used to form a model of the denture from a wax impression. )
Porcelain furnace. Used to bake and harden porcelain dentures. (eg: Used to bake and cure dentures made from porcelain material. )
Vacuum casting machine. Used to make copies of dentures. (eg: Used to create a duplicate of the denture for customizing or repairs. )
Dental drill. Used to shape and smooth dentures. (eg: Used to refine the shape and contours of the denture before it is finished. )
Polishing machine. Used to buff and polish dentures. (eg: Used to give the denture a smooth and shiny finish. )
Ultrasonic cleaner. Used to clean dentures before they are finished. (eg: Used to remove any debris or residue from the denture before it is polished. )

Professional Organizations to Know

American College of Prosthodontists
National Association of Dental Laboratories
American Board of Prosthodontics
International Congress of Oral Implantologists
Academy of Prosthodontics
American Academy of Fixed Prosthodontics
American Society for Dental Aesthetics
International Academy of Prosthodontics
International Association of Dental Research
International Association for Dental Traumatology

We also have Denturist Dental Technician, Denturist Clinical Supervisor, and Denturist Assistant jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Prosthodontics. Prosthodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on the restoration and replacement of teeth, including crowns, bridges, implants, dentures, and veneers.
Occlusion. Occlusion is the contact between the upper and lower teeth when biting or chewing.
Impressions. Impressions are a way to capture the shape of the teeth and the mouth. They can be made with a variety of materials, such as wax, clay, or silicone.
Waxing. Waxing is a technique used in dentistry to create a dental cast or model that can be used for restorations.
Dental Casting. Dental casting is the process of creating a cast or model of the teeth and mouth for use in restorations.
Finishing. Finishing is the process of smoothing and polishing a restoration to ensure it fits the patients mouth properly and looks natural.
Articulators. Articulators are used to simulate the movement of the jaw to ensure restorations fit properly.
Ceramics. Ceramics are a type of material used to create restorations such as crowns, bridges, and veneers.
Acrylics. Acrylics are a type of material used to create dentures, partials, and other restorations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Denturist Laboratory Technician?

A Denturist Laboratory Technician is a professional who fabricates and repairs custom-made dentures, implants, crowns and other dental prosthetics.

What qualifications are required to become a Denturist Laboratory Technician?

To become a Denturist Laboratory Technician, one must have a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as completion of an accredited Denturist Program and successful completion of the National Board of Certification for Dental Laboratory Technicians.

What tasks does a Denturist Laboratory Technician perform?

A Denturist Laboratory Technician is responsible for fabricating, modifying, repairing, and finishing dentures, implants, crowns, bridges and other dental prosthetics. They may also be responsible for taking impressions, examining models for accuracy, and providing consultation on denture design.

What tools does a Denturist Laboratory Technician use?

Common tools used by a Denturist Laboratory Technician include drills, grinders, polishers, wax carvers, injection machines, and articulators.

What is the salary range for a Denturist Laboratory Technician?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for a Denturist Laboratory Technician is $38,250. The top 10 percent earn more than $60,590 per year.