Dental Technician
Technical Diploma — Downtown Milwaukee Campus

Program code: 30-507-1

This curriculum goes into effect starting with the summer 2008 semester.

Program curriculum requirements are subject to change.

Overview — The Dental Technician program is a two-semester, 16-credit technical diploma program. You will gain knowledge and learn skills needed to fabricate fixed prosthetic restorations (metal and ceramic crowns and bridges). The curriculum also includes dental terminology, dental anatomy and occlusion. Students will acquire laboratory skills through hands-on experience in a well-equipped dental laboratory on the MATC campus.

Career Outlook — An increasing demand for esthetic dentistry and the aging population in the U.S. are creating a growing demand for dental technicians. Employment opportunities exist in commercial dental laboratories, laboratories in dental clinics and in-office laboratories. With experience, dental technicians can become department supervisors, laboratory managers and laboratory owners. Dental technicians also find employment as sales or manufacturers’ representatives.

For more information about a career as a Dental Technician, visit the following websites: National Association of Dental Laboratories at www.nadl.org or the American Dental Association at www.ada.org.  

Career Preparation and Expected Learning Outcomes — Employers expect program graduates to be able to:

• Use dental terminology appropriately
• Relate concepts of oral anatomy, morphology and occlusion to dental laboratory procedures
• Competently perform laboratory techniques and procedures
• Utilize dental materials with consideration of their chemical and physical properties
• Assume the role of the dental laboratory technician as a member of the dental health care team
• Observe proper infection control procedures

Preparation for Admission — The following are required for admission to the program:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Good health as evidenced by a medical examination
• Demonstration of proficiency in basic skills through a course placement assessment
• Documentation that the Essential Job Functions for a dental laboratory technician have been reviewed. This is in keeping with the requirement of the federal Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA).

Other important skills include hand/eye coordination, manual dexterity, and ability to use small hand instruments with precision. You also will need to be an independent worker.

Future Opportunities — After completing a work experience requirement, you may apply for certification by the National Board of Certification.

Possible Careers:

Dental Ceramicist
Dental Laboratory Technician
Dental Technician
Laboratory Manager

Related Programs:

Dental Assistant
Dental Hygiene

For more information, call 414-297-MATC.

Curriculum effective 2008-2009.

Hours per Week: r = related, s = shop, c = clinical

Program curriculum requirements are subject to change.

‡ Prerequisite Required.

For course descriptions, times, locations or to register online, visit INFOnline.