HOW TO GET THERE
Typical pathway
A common pathway starts with completing secondary school, especially courses in science, math, and shop or art if available. Many people then take a college dental technology program or a related training program, since employers often prefer practical training in dental materials, anatomy, and lab methods. After that, new workers usually gain hands-on experience in a dental lab making models, moulds, dentures, and orthodontic parts under supervision. Some employers may look for additional on-the-job training, and requirements can vary by province, program, or specific role.
THE WORK
What you may do
Legacy duties
- Prepare plaster models and moulds from dental impressions
- Prepare wax bite-blocks and impression trays
- Cast gold or metal alloys for bridges and denture bases
- Pack plastic material in moulds to form full or partial dentures
- Mould wax over denture set-up to form full contours of artificial gums
- Make orthodontic bands from gold, silver, stainless steel or other metals
- Finish metal framework of dentures and polish and buff dentures to obtain natural finish.
SKILLS TO BUILD
Skills used in this Career
Business ProceduresInterpersonal skillsMultidisciplinary teamwork