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.
“Dental technicians perform an incredible service in our mission to assist our dentists and clients in effectively treating patients in need,” said Travis Zick, 2019 NADL president.
“Technicians who take the initiative to earn their CDT designation demonstrate a higher level of commitment and pride in our profession. Having the CDT designation also shows their peers, and clients, that they have a proven knowledge and understanding of dental laboratory fundamentals,” said Zick.
Only four states in the United States require certification or continuing education for dental technicians. Through its What’s In Your Mouth campaign, NADL seeks to inform dentists and patients of the important role of the dental laboratory technician and dental laboratory.
“Being a Certified Dental Technician means that I challenged myself to achieve this recognition and I continue to maintain a high standard of excellence in my profession,” said 2019 NBC chair Morris Fucarino, CDT.
“I am proud to be a CDT and have a great admiration for those who have and continue to challenge themselves in pursuing and maintaining the CDT designation. It is important for our profession to have a standard of excellence and certification can serve as a demonstration of knowledge and skill in our field,” said Fucarino.
The NBC says that is an independent 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, NADL reports. It comprises six specialty areas: ceramics, complete dentures, crown and bridge, orthodontics, partial dentures, and implants.
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