There are more than 60,000 active dental laboratory technicians in the U.S. today. States set no minimum qualification for persons to be employed as dental technicians, and so the field exhibits a wide range of skills and abilities. Skill in using small hand instruments, accuracy, artistic ability and attention to minute detail are the hallmarks of the qualified dental laboratory technician. These laboratories are often very small averaging between 3 and 5 technicians but can range in size to over 200 people. The military services still train and employ a number of dental technicians, as do government and private hospitals and companies that manufacture dental prosthetic materials.
Schools teaching dental technology offer some teaching positions for experienced technicians.
Dental technology is an excellent field for persons who dream of owning their own business someday. The standards and requirements for certification do not vary across state lines and certification is universally endorsed. Since most dentists utilize laboratory services, employment and career opportunities in this field are excellent and in demand. Dental technology is an excellent field for persons who dream of owning their own business. The dental technician can choose from a variety of practice types, based on personal interest.