If you want to work in the dental field, yet you are not really a "people person" why not consider working in a dental laboratory? While a dental laboratory technician does not work in a dental office, they are an important part of the dental care team. What does a dental laboratory technician do? They make what are called dental prostheses, which is a fancy word for dental replacements of anything from a tooth to a full set of dentures and everything in between.

A dental laboratory technician must have sure and steady hands in order to create masterpieces of dental ingenuity. One must also utilize a sense of creativity and attention to detail. A dental laboratory technician's job is never boring, and skills are challenged on a daily basis. A dental laboratory technician is trained to create full dentures for patients, partial dentures and bridges as well as veneers, crowns and orthodontic appliances and splints.

A dental laboratory technician is also able to work with several different substances such as plastics, precious alloys, stainless steel and porcelain, among others. Dental laboratory technicians pour dental molds using a variety of plasters and stones and are able to carve tooth structures in wax that are then used to create dental bridges and dentures. Dental laboratory technicians are so talented that they are able to easily match tooth color and texture to blend with remaining dental work in a patient's mouth.

A dental laboratory specializes in creating appliances and dentures for patients, but it's also a growing field, especially with the rising popularity of cosmetic dentistry.

Most dental laboratory technicians must complete at least a two-year program at either a community college or university level dental school. Vocational and technical colleges also offer dental laboratory technician courses and graduates receive either an associate degree or a certificate of completion. In order to even apply for the dental laboratory technician program however, be advised that a high school diploma or other equivalent will be necessary.

Some universities also offer a four-year baccalaureate program in dental technology. A dental laboratory technician, no matter where they complete their schooling and clinic experience, must take exams administered by the National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology. After passing the exams, a dental technician becomes a Certified and is eligible to specialize in orthodontics, dentures, crown and bridge, partial dentures or ceramics.

A dental laboratory technician does not usually work directly with a dental patient unless it's necessary, and if so, they will work under the direction of a licensed dentist. A dental laboratory technician is fully trained in the operation and use of a myriad of equipment and must pass skills tests in their use. A dental laboratory technician earns a nice salary, which, however, may depend on location.

It is not unusual for an experienced dental laboratory technician, after several years of experience, often opt to open their own dental laboratories. As with any job position in a medical field, there will always be a need for dental laboratory technicians, and the field provides a secure career choice for many individuals.