This is a physical role that involves making things with your hands for most of your working day. However, you will also use computers and software to support the modelling and detailing of the medical appliances you create. You’ll also get to meet customers at times, to make sure the fit, character, and colour of your technical work is absolutely spot on.
Dental Technician
Designing, making and repairing dental appliances such as braces and dentures to bring a smile back to people's faces
How this role makes a difference
Dental technicians manufacture precise, custom-made medical appliances including bridges, crowns, implants, and dentures. These are used to replace or repair people’s natural teeth, to prevent pain and discomfort, and to improve appearance.
The role requires a strong mix of science skills and knowledge, and creativity, as dental technicians need to achieve the same skill level as fine artists and understand the range of materials and mechanics involved in making the appliances. You could be the technician who brings a smile back to people’s faces, with medical appliances that fit perfectly and match their natural teeth shade and character as closely as possible.
The kind of work you’ll do
- Advising dentists on the appropriate dental appliance based on the patient’s needs
- Producing models
- Designing and manufacturing dental appliances
- Selecting materials
- Modifying and repairing appliances
- Recording the design and decision-making process
- Communicating with dental teams and patients
- Maintaining a clean laboratory environment
What you can bring to the role
Future career opportunities
As you learn your trade you will be part of a team, taking on individual elements of the manufacturing process and becoming an expert in the different tools you use.
In time, you may decide to set up your own laboratory, to help private and NHS dentists to meet their customers’ needs.
How to get into this role
There’s no perfect career path or ideal way into your dream job.
But if you’re interested in education and training options that could be relevant to this role, you might want to consider:
- A T-level in Health, Science or Healthcare Science after you finish your GCSEs
- A higher-level apprenticeship as a Dental Technician or a Clinical Dental Technician after finishing your T-level or A-levels
Schools and colleges each have their own career guidance plan and can provide detailed information, advice, and guidance on options and next steps.
A little more about the role
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