Dental Technician

Dental technicians play a crucial role in the dental health sector by designing, constructing, and repairing dental appliances such as crowns, bridges, dentures, and orthodontic devices. Their work is primarily based in a laboratory setting, where they use a combination of manual skills and advanced technology, including 3D printers and CAD CAM systems, to create custom dental prosthetics based on dentists' prescriptions. Dental technicians must have good attention to detail, manual dexterity, and a sound understanding of dental anatomy and materials. Most dental technicians start with a diploma or degree in dental technology, and registration with the General Dental Council is essential to practise in the UK. The role can offer opportunities for further specialisation, such as in orthodontics or maxillofacial prosthetics.