Life is full of constant changes. We all know things will not stay the same, but for the most part, change is a good thing. I am a firm believer that positive changes require growth, and growth requires you to move out of your comfort zone. Along with changes, life is full of decision-making. Many decisions require us to think big, such as buying a home or creating a career path. Others are small decisions, such as what to have for dinner. Either way, each decision we make will impact our lives in some way. After working chairside in a dental office for over ten years, I had to make a conscious decision about my career path.
The program challenges me to think, and it made me realize that every case on my bench is not just a poured model, it is a real patient.
My childhood dream was to work at a dental practice. I found the work of a dentist to be quite interesting and very artistic. At the age of twenty, I graduated from a technical college and began working full time as a dental assistant. After a few years, I became one of the top-paid assistants and really enjoyed my area of expertise. There are many different specialties in dentistry, and I pretty much had a taste of all of them. Over the years, I became too comfortable with my level of work. I began to feel like I wasn’t growing, and that there was potential in me that had yet to be brought out. I knew I wanted a change, but I did not want to completely leave dentistry. As a mother with young children, I wanted a career where I could enjoy what I do and still have family time. This brought me to dental laboratory technology.
When working in the practice I often heard about dental lab technicians, but I didn’t see them like I saw the everyday hygienist. There were times when I would hear the dentist talk about the lab, or I would see the drivers come by to get cases. I became curious. I began doing my research and came across the dental laboratory technology program at LSU School of Dentistry. I then decided to leave my career as an expanded-duty chairside dental assistant and pursue my education in dental laboratory technology. This decision was not easy. I became uncomfortable with the change, but I knew it would allow me to grow and see dentistry from another perspective.
This takes me to a time during my first semester in the program. We were learning to fabricate baseplates for dentures. As a result of my previous experience, I already had the outcome in my head of how my baseplate should look, and I knew what to expect from the lab. My knowledge as a dental assistant created a solid foundation to support my career advancement.
I had a choice of training at an in-house dental lab or going through a formal dental lab program. I must say going through the program was a better route for me to take. Instead of doing hands-on training alone, the program taught me the importance of occlusion, the chemistry of alloys, thoroughly setting up teeth, and so much more. It is designed to teach the importance of the fundamentals before applying the hand skills. Although I knew adequately enough about chairside dentistry, being in the program showed me that there is more to it. It provided a pathway for me to become successful as a lab technician. The courses, including dental laboratory management, teach the foundation of owning and operating a lab business. The program challenges me to think, and it made me realize that every case on my bench is not just a poured model, it is a real patient. I feel honered to be in this field as my understanding has broadened. I understand the importance of good impressions, shade matching and communication with the dentist, but most of all, it reminds me of the huge role lab technicians play in dentistry.
I am currently a second-year student at LSU School of Dentistry and I’ve accomplished so much, including passing my Recognized Graduate exam eight months before graduation. My career as an assistant provided great advantages for me and I’m proud of that.
It was once said, “you’re never too old to set a new goal.” My goal is to reach out to other dental assistants who may feel lost or may be at a stopping point in their career. I’m eager to share my experience. With most dental lab schools closing, and the lack of dental technicians, this would be a great way to bring awareness to our industry. I am truly please with my career change. Becoming a dental laboratory technician allowed me to be able to do what I love from a different perspective. My love for dentistry is now expressed through my work of dental art. With that being said, “Goodbye chairside, hello bench!”
Tracy Graham
About the Author
Tracy Graham is a mother of six children who resides just outside of New Orleans, LA. She is currently in her second year at the dental laboratory technology program at LSU School of Dentistry. Her passions include dentistry, caring for her young children, reading and creative writing.
This article was originally published in the Journal of Dental Technology April 2023
Your story is a testament to your passion, perseverance, and commitment to excellence in the dental profession. Keep up the fantastic work, and continue inspiring others with your journey!
yes , you are right
What an inspiring journey! Your story beautifully illustrates how stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to remarkable growth and new opportunities. It’s encouraging to see how your passion for dentistry evolved into a new role that allows you to express your creativity and artistry. Your commitment to educating others in the field is commendable, especially in light of the challenges facing dental lab technology. Best of luck as you continue your studies at LSU and embrace this exciting new chapter!