It’s time to show the staff at your lab some love, as June is Dental Technician and Certified Dental Technician (CDT) Appreciation Month, according to the National Association of Dental Laboratories (NADL) and the National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology (NBC).
“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.
The celebration recognizes the experience and expertise in dental materials, technology utilization, shade verification, and restorative dentistry that dental technicians have. Although they generally operate behind the scenes, dental technicians are a crucial part of ensuring the delivery of quality dental care, according to the NADL and NBC.
“It is because dental technicians aren’t often seen by the patient that the dental laboratory technology profession is so unknown to everyday people,” said Voss. “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.”
NADL seeks to inform dentists and patients of the important role of the dental laboratory technician and the dental laboratory through its What’s in Your Mouth campaign. In the US, most states don’t set any minimum standards for people to be employed as dental technicians. In fact, only 4 states 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. It is the only voluntary certification program for dental laboratory technicians recognized by the ADA.
The CDT designation demonstrates a mastery of the knowledge and applied skills needed in dental technology. It also demonstrates knowledge in 6 specialty areas: ceramics, complete dentures, crown and bridge, orthodontics, partial dentures, and implants.
Related Articles
Survey Suggests Dentists Should Look Closely at Their Labs’ Standards
The Secret to Completing Lifelike Restorations
NADL Salute Laboratory Luminaries
