Dental technicians work in labs, where they make and repair dental appliances, including dentures, inlays, bridges, crowns and braces. Following a dentist's prescription, technicians create appliances using wax, plasters, plastic, ceramics and metals from impressions taken of a patient's mouth or teeth.

Most technicians learn their craft on the job, while others attend a formal training program that leads to an associate's degree in applied science. A few programs also offer a four-year bachelor's degree in dental technology. Dental technicians may become certified by passing an examination evaluating their skills and knowledge.

The work is extremely delicate and time-consuming. Salaried technicians usually work 40 hours a week, but self-employed technicians frequently work longer hours. Demand for dental technicians is expected to rise as interest in cosmetic dentistry increases and more Americans need dental appliances as they age. For more information on lab technicians, visit the National Association of Dental Laboratories Web site at www.nadl.org.

Reviewed: January 2012