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Dental technologists, technicians and laboratory assistants – NOC : 3223

Unit Group
3223 Dental technologists, technicians and laboratory assistants
Dental technologists and technicians design, prepare and fabricate dentures and dental devices as prescribed by dentists and other specialists. Dental laboratory assistants assist dental technologists and technicians in preparing and fabricating dentures and other dental devices. They are employed in dental laboratories. Dental technologists and technicians who are supervisors are included in this unit group.
Example Titles
ceramic denture moulder
dental laboratory assistant
dental technician
dental technician supervisor
dental technologist
denture finisher
denture wax pattern former
orthodontic band maker
registered dental technician
registered dental technologist
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Main duties
Dental technologists, technicians and laboratory assistants perform some or all of the following duties:
  • Design, fabricate or repair dental devices including full or partial dentures, orthodontic appliances, crowns, bridges, inlays, onlays, clasps and bands, and implants
  • 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
  • May consult with dentists or other specialists on problematic dental cases
  • May train and supervise other dental technicians and dental laboratory assistants in fabricating dentures and other dental devices
  • May perform administrative functions for the dental laboratory.
Employment requirements
  • Dental technologists and technicians are required to complete a college program in dental technology 
  • or
  • Four or more years of on-the-job training under the supervision of a registered dental technologist or technician.
  • Registration with a regulatory body is required for dental technologists and technicians in all provinces except in Manitoba and the territories.
  • Dental laboratory assistants usually require secondary school and up to two years of on-the-job training.
Additional information
  • Dental laboratory assistants may progress to dental technologist and technician positions with training, experience and registration.
Classified elsewhere
  • Dental assistants (3411)
  • Dental hygienists and dental therapists (3222)
  • Denturists (3221)