Dental laboratory technicians create devices that correct, replace, or restore patients' teeth.

Dental laboratory technicians may specialize in several areas such as:

• Orthodontic appliances
• Crowns and bridges
• Complete dentures
• Partial dentures
• Implants
• Ceramics

Dental laboratory technicians work closesly with dentists but have limited contact with patients. They create crowns, bridges, dentures, and other dental appliances based on impressions or molds of patient's teeth. They often use small handtools, such as filers and polishers, and work with a variety of different materials including wax, porcelain, ceramic, and plastic. Technicians also adjust and repair damaged applicanes and devices.

Technicians may work in a small office or for a large manufacturing facility. In small officers, technicians may be responsible for every stage of production. In large manufacturing facilities, they may only be responsible for one stage of production.

Job titles may reflect the specialty area. For example, technicians who make porcelain and acrylic restorations are called dental ceramicists. Technicians may do all stages of the work or they may specialize in one step of the process.