Dental technologists and technicians

Overview

Dental technologists and technicians design, prepare and fabricate dentures and dental devices as prescribed by dentists and other specialists. They are employed in dental laboratories. Dental technologists and technicians who are supervisors are included in this unit group.

This group performs some or all of the following duties:

  • Design, fabricate, modify or repair dental devices including full or partial dentures, orthodontic appliances, crowns, bridges, inlays, onlays, clasps and bands, and implants

  • Ensure proper handling and control of hazardous materials, and adhere to laboratory infection control procedures as required

  • May consult with dentists or other specialists on problematic dental cases

  • May train and supervise other dental technicians and dental laboratory assistants in fabricating dentures and other dental devices

  • May conduct research in the science, techniques and practice of dental technology

  • May perform administrative functions for the dental laboratory.

Job titles

  • apprentice dental prosthesis maker
  • apprentice dental technician
  • certified dental technician (CDT)
  • crown and bridge dental technician
  • dental ceramist
  • dental laboratory technician

Employment prospects

Source: BC Labour Market Outlook 2023 edition

Annual salary

Low

$52,140

Median

$54,226

High

$68,825

Job openings

Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.

British Columbia

185

expected job openings (5-year forecast)

Education and training

Employment requirements

  • Dental technologists and technicians are required to complete a college program in dental technology or four or more years of on-the-job training under the supervision of a registered dental technologist or technician.

  • Registration with a regulatory body is required for dental technologists and technicians in all provinces except in Manitoba and the territories.

Certification requirements

Mandatory: You need the following certification to practice as Dental technologists and technicians in B.C.

  • Registration with British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals - Dental Technologists and Technicians

Registration with British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals - Dental Technologists and Technicians

Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.

To practice as a dental technologist or technician in B.C., you must register with the British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals. Eligibility is achieved through completion of an accredited dental technology program.

Visit website

Work Experience

Work experience required

Post-secondary programs in B.C.

Explore programs related to this career offered at post-secondary institutions in B.C.

Other careers