Dental Laboratory Technicians
Dental laboratory technicians construct and repair dentures and other dental appliances based on prescriptions from dentists. They work in dental laboratories, using specialized tools and materials to create custom prosthetics. Most positions require a high school diploma, with training provided on the job.
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A day in the work
A typical week involves receiving prescription orders from dental offices, then measuring and shaping materials to create or repair dentures and appliances. Technicians use lathes, grinders, and other equipment to fabricate parts, test fit and function, and make adjustments. Work includes detailed record-keeping and quality checks before sending finished pieces back to dentists.
Who this work suits
Holland code RIC. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy hands-on problem-solving and working with precise measurements and technical details. If you're drawn to realistic, investigative work—figuring out how things are made and improving their function—this role offers the chance to apply those skills in crafting devices that directly improve people's lives.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Openings right now
- Dental Laboratory Technician · Veterans Health Administration · Jackson, Mississippi · $55882–$72644
- Dental Laboratory Technician · Veterans Health Administration · Muskogee, Oklahoma · $61722–$80243
- Dental Laboratory Technician · Veterans Health Administration · Ann Arbor, Michigan · $68081–$88510
- Dental Laboratory Technician · Military Treatment Facilities under DHA · Fort Bragg, North Carolina · $58355–$75858
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $60,960 | $72,800 | $79,110 | 440 |
| North Dakota | $57,970 | $67,580 | $68,380 | 60 |
| Maine | $51,810 | $64,020 | $72,800 | 120 |
| Colorado | $51,030 | $61,220 | $75,500 | 410 |
| New Hampshire | $51,410 | $60,610 | $62,120 | 120 |
| Florida | $47,430 | $59,790 | $72,800 | 2,330 |
| Nebraska | $49,990 | $58,590 | $61,940 | 190 |
| Kansas | $48,180 | $56,790 | $73,350 | 570 |
| Washington | $47,830 | $56,400 | $67,810 | 670 |
| Minnesota | $47,670 | $56,090 | $61,310 | 390 |
| New York | $47,080 | $52,460 | $61,540 | 1,890 |
| Virginia | $44,220 | $51,900 | $75,160 | 1,050 |
All 46 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Dental Technician - Partial Dentures (CDT-PD) — National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology
- Certified Dental Technician - Crown and Bridge (CDT-CB) — National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology
- Certified Dental Technician (CDT) — National Board for Certification - National Association of Dental Laboratories
- Certified Dental Technician - Ceramics (CDT-C) — National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology
- Certified Dental Technician - Complete Dentures (CDT-CD) — National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology
- Certified Dental Technician - Implants (CDT-I) — National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against dental laboratory technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 51-9081.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.