The National Association of Dental Laboratories (NADL) and the National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology (NBC) celebrate June as Dental Technician and Certified Dental Technician (CDT) Appreciation Month.
“On behalf of NADL and NBC, I would like to take this time to acknowledge and give special recognition to all dental technicians for their hard work, quality service and dedication to the patient and the profession,” said Heather Voss, CDT, 2016 NBC chair and NADL board member.
Dental technicians bring considerable experience and subject matter expertise in the areas of dental materials, technology utilization, shade verification and restorative dentistry. Although generally operating behind the scenes of the oral health team, dental technicians are a crucial part of ensuring delivery of quality dental care.
“It is because dental technicians aren’t often seen by the patient that the dental laboratory technology profession is so unknown to everyday people. With the help of NADL and NBC, it is up to us as dedicated, proud dental technicians to show the world what we do and the benefits of working with a formally educated, trained and/or certified dental technician,” said Voss.
NADL seeks to inform dentists and patients of the important role of the dental laboratory technician and dental laboratory through its “What’s In Your Mouth?” campaign. In the U.S., most states set no minimum standards for persons to be employed as dental technicians. In fact, only four states in the U.S. require either certification or continuing education for dental technicians.
The NBC was formed in 1955 as an independent certification organization dedicated to improving the quality of dental laboratory technology through voluntary testing and certification of dental laboratories and technicians. This is the only voluntary certification program for dental laboratory technicians recognized by the American Dental Association.
The CDT designation demonstrates a mastery of the knowledge and applied skills needed in dental technology. It illustrates a technician’s commitment to the field of dental technology and demonstrates their knowledge in six specialty areas: ceramics, complete dentures, crown and bridge, orthodontics, partial dentures and implants.
“It is our honor to dedicate the month of June to dental technicians and certified dental technicians,” said Voss. “We look forward to the special insert in the June/July issue of the Journal of Dental Technology, recognizing all CDTs who have reached a milestone in 2016.”
