Oral Health Care: A Whole New Language
Dental Laboratory Technician

The dental laboratory technician (DLT) works under the direction of a licensed dentist. The DLT uses impressions (molds) of the patient's teeth or oral soft tissues and detailed written instructions to create:

• Full dentures for patients who are missing all of their teeth
• Removable partial dentures or fixed bridges for patients missing only one or a few teeth
• Crowns, which are caps for teeth that are designed to restore their original size and shape
• Veneers, that enhance the esthetics and function of the patient
• Orthodontic appliances and splints to help straighten and protect teeth¹

The dental laboratory technician is not licensed, but may become certified through the National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology. A dental technician who passes the certification examination becomes a Certified Dental Technician (CDT). CDTs specialize in one or more of the five areas listed above. Many DLTs are trained on the job, but may receive training in a two-year program at a community college, vocational school, technical college, university or dental school. Graduates of these programs receive either an associate’s degree or a certificate. There are also a few programs that offer a four-year baccalaureate program in dental technology. To find out more, visit the ADA Dental Careers page.