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Supply Chain & ProductionDeclining

Dental Laboratory Technician

Operational-level

Also known as: Bridge Technician, CAD Tech (Computer-Aided Design Technician), CAM Tech (Computer-Aided Manufacturing Technician), Ceramist

Supply Chain & ProductionBachelor's Degree

Job Description

As a Dental Laboratory Technician, you construct and repair custom dental appliances such as dentures, crowns, and bridges. You spend most of your time indoors in a controlled environment, using your hands to precisely shape materials, often under time pressure. This role requires accuracy, critical thinking, and keen attention to detail to ensure each piece fits perfectly. You'll use specialized tools and may work with contaminants. This job suits those who enjoy detailed, hands-on work and problem-solving.
Dental TechnologyDental ProstheticsDenture FabricationMedical Device ManufacturingHealthcareProductionMaterials ScienceTechnicalManufacturingSkilled Trade

A Day in the Life

You arrive at the dental lab in downtown Phoenix, the hum of equipment already faint in the background. After clocking in, you don your lab coat, safety glasses, and gloves. Your first task is to review the day's schedule on the digital display, prioritizing a rush case: a three-unit bridge. You gather the physical impressions and prepare to pour dental stone into them, using a vibrator and mixing bowl to create precise working models for the upcoming construction phases, ensuring no air bubbles ruin the detail.

Skills employers are looking for in 2027

Software and technologies flagged by O*NET as Hot or In-Demand for this role.

Hot technologies
Intuit QuickBooksMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft WindowsMicrosoft Word

Job Outlook 2025-2035

Projected growth

-5.9%

US average: +3.5%

Job openings

3,600

per year (US)

Jobs today

34,400

in 2025 → 32,300 (2035)

Typical entry education

High school diploma or equivalent

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections; O*NET Bright Outlook. Read the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook

Work Environment

How this work is typically performed, based on O*NET work context data.

Email & digital communication
Moderate
Working in a team
High
Contact with others
Moderate
Freedom to make decisions
High
Time pressure
High
Time spent sitting
High
Working outdoors
Low
Indoor, climate-controlled
High
Dealing with customers
Moderate
Level of competition
Moderate

Source: O*NET Work Context (v31.0)

Future Perspective

Declining Job Market

The demand for Dental Laboratory Technicians is projected to decline by about 5.9% through 2035, indicating a declining outlook. However, around 3,600 job openings are still expected each year. The median annual wage for this role is about $49,610. With experience, you can specialize in areas like CAD/CAM design or advance to a senior technician or lab management position.

Career ladder

Often before this role

  • Dental Lab Assistant
  • Entry-Level Dental Technician

Where it can lead

  • Senior Dental Lab Technician
  • Dental CAD/CAM Specialist
  • Dental Lab Manager

Impact of AI on this Job

AI and automation are set to significantly impact dental laboratory technicians in the next 5-10 years. CAD/CAM technologies, AI-driven design software, and 3D printing will streamline the creation of prosthetics, making processes faster and more precise. Technicians will likely shift from purely manual fabrication to overseeing automated systems, troubleshooting, and handling highly complex or customized cases that require unique human expertise.

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Salary

$49,610

Median annual wage, BLS 2025

Required Education

Bachelor's Degree

Minimum educational requirement for this position

Relevant Studies

Based on job level & field

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