A dental technician is a skilled member of the dental staff who, upon consultation with a qualified dental clinician, constructively custom-make dental prosthetics and restorative appliances. There are different levels of dental training, which you can obtain in dental schools and colleges. These programs include general and specialized training programs for dental technicians.
Dental techs work together with the dentist in order to make certain that the dental prosthetics are manufactured according to the oral and written instructions provided by the dentist. As a result, these individuals do not take part in various patient interactions. Dentists and dental hygienists make impressions of a patientâs teeth, which dental technicians use to construct the actual dental device. These individuals are also tasked to maintain dental equipment and instruments.
Dentists rely on these individuals because they are specialized in dental bridges and crowns, partial and complete dentures, orthodontic appliances, as well as ceramics. Many dental technicians become certified to demonstrate their skills and knowledge in a specialty which in turn, makes the more desirable in the field. Successful dental technicians possess an attention to detail, manual dexterity, as well as, critical thinking and time management skills.
Typical duties of dental technicians include fabrication of precise models based on impressions provided by dentists or dental hygienists, in addition to maintaining the dental laboratoryâs records and preparing laboratory activity reports. Dental technician duties also include pouring and trimming dentures models, and finishing partial and full dentures with implants, as well as without.
Dental techs must have good communication skills, and be able to communicate and follow up effectively. They need to be able to listen to the needs of dentists and dental hygienists, and possess excellent customer service and telephone etiquette skills. Since these technicians will be working closely with the dentist and other members of staff, they will want to learn how to successfully relate and interact with their supervisor and other dental staff members. The job of a dental technician requires them to develop good relationships and communication with the other staff, as well as their supervisors. This will facilitate and sustain a healthy and reliable working environment.
Dental technicians need to able to perform physical work, and frequently lift items of considerable weight. They must be dependable, highly motivated, and be able to work in a team environment to ensure that prosthetics are constructed properly. Quality dental appliances enable the dentist to provide optimal oral care services to every patient, and dental technicians play a crucial role in achieving this aim.
