Dental Laboratory Technicians

Most dental laboratory technicians work in well-lit, calm, and pleasant surroundings. Technicians usually have their own workbenches and equipment. Because some pieces of equipment produce high levels of noise, dental laboratory technicians may wish to have their hearing checked periodically. Some wear noise-cancelling headphones to reduce the chance of hearing loss.

The normal workweek for technicians employed in commercial laboratories is 40 hours. Sometimes technicians face deadline pressure, although dentists' requirements are usually flexible enough to allow for special problems or difficult jobs. Many laboratories must operate on weekends, and in areas where there is a shortage of technicians, it may be necessary to work overtime, with salaries adjusted accordingly. Self-employed technicians or those in very small laboratories may have irregular or longer hours.

Technicians usually work by themselves, concentrating on details of the pieces they are making or repairing. While the work does not demand great physical strength, it does require deft handling of materials and tools. Technicians usually have little contact with people other than their immediate coworkers and the dentists whose instructions they follow. Work is often brought in and out by messengers or by mail.

Successful dental laboratory technicians enjoy detailed work, are good at following instructions, and take pride in perfection. They should enjoy working independently but still be able to coordinate their activities with other workers in the same laboratory when necessary.