Dental laboratory technology is the art and science of manufacturing corrective devices and replacements for natural teeth.
Restorative (or prosthetic) dentistry is when we lose our teeth, through an accident or illness, and they need to maintain normal functions. Orthodontic treatment is when teeth must be moved or stabilized to optimize functions or prevent painful dysfunction. The patient’s dentist will plan the treatment and place the restoration or corrective device in the patient’s mouth.
Cosmetic Dentistry is the comprehensive oral care that combines art and science to optimally improve dental health, aesthetics and function. Common cosmetic dental treatment options include: whitening, contouring, bonding, dental bridges, veneers and gum lifts.
A dental laboratory technician communicates and collaborates with the dentist to plan, design and fabricate dental prostheses for individual patients.
Dental technicians do not have direct contact with patients. Instead they work in a dental laboratory where various prosthetic appliances are custom made. Dental technicians can be thought of as artists who, with a thorough understanding of dental materials science, use their artistic skills to fabricate the form, colour and function of individual teeth or maxillofacial prostheses for a patient. The fact that the product can affect the health and appearance of a person demands of the technician a high level of responsibility and accuracy.
The dentist is responsible for providing dental laboratory with a prescription detailing final treatment choice and for placement of restoration or corrective device in the patient's mouth. The dental technician aids the dentist in material choices and case design and is responsible for fabrication of the final prostheses or corrective devices.
By fabricating esthetic dental prostheses that work well and by improving the patient’s smile, the dental laboratory technician influences not only patient’s physical and dental health but also improves his or her confidence and self-esteem.
