Orthodontist Technician
Career Overview
Orthodontic technicians play a key role in supporting orthodontists by creating dental appliances, like braces, retainers, and other custom devices that help correct misaligned teeth and jaws. They work in dental labs, using molds, casts, and blueprints. Their work ensures that patients receive personalized, precise treatment that fits their specific dental needs, which is essential in helping orthodontists achieve the desired results for their patients.
Daily Responsibilities
Design dental appliances, including braces, aligners, and retainers
Work with molds and digital impressions of patients' teeth
Adjust and fine-tune devices to ensure a proper fit
Collaborate with orthodontists
Maintain and sterilize equipment
Education and Training
Dental Technology Program - Certificate or Associate Degree in Dental Technology [2-3 years]
Licensure - National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology (NBC)
On the Job Training
Salary
Entry Level: $40,000 - $50,000
Experienced: $50,000 - $90,000+
Job Outlook
The demand for pathologists is expected to remain steady, with a growing need for specialized diagnostics as the population ages and more sophisticated medical technologies emerge. Pathologists are in high demand in hospitals, private labs, and academic research.
Skills and Qualities
Attention to Detail
Communication and Interpersonal Skills
Manual Dexterity
Adaptability
Technical Proficiency
Related Careers
Orthodontist
Dental Hygienist
Dental Laboratory Technician
Prosthodontist
Oral Surgeon