What they do
Dental technicians work from a prescription, usually written by a dentist, and create or repair dentures and other dental appliances. These can be made using a variety of materials including plastic, metal and ceramics. They are made using various technical skills, including plaster casting, electro-spot welding, metal casting, metal bending, metal polishing, wax modelling, ceramics, electroplating and sandblasting. Dental technicians do not usually interact with customers.
Working conditions
Dental technicians may work alone or in a small group in a laboratory. They usually work regular work hours. Dental technicians work with highly specialised equipment and various chemicals, which they need to be careful with when handling.
Tools and technologies
Dental technicians are required to use a wide range of tools and technologies to complete various technical procedures including plaster casting, electro-spot welding, metal casting, metal polishing, ceramics, electroplating and sandblasting. Increasingly, Computer-Aided Design/Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) machines are being used to create some dental products.
How do I become one?
Education and training
To become a dental technician you usually need to undertake an apprenticeship as dental technician. The dental technician apprenticeship usually takes 48 months to complete.
Apprenticeships and traineeships
As an apprentice or trainee, you are employed and get paid while you complete training towards a nationally recognised qualification. You'll do a combination of on the job training - gaining hands on skills, knowledge and experience - and structured training with a registered training provider such as TAFE.
You can do an apprenticeship or traineeship if you are a school leaver, re-entering the workforce or as an adult or mature aged person wishing to change careers. You can even begin your apprenticeship or traineeship while you're still at school.