Dental Laboratory Technology - J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College

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Dental Laboratory Technician
Associate of Applied Science


“Reynolds Dental Lab Technology students brought smiles to the Eastern Shore when they worked with 325 volunteers in April of 2009 to provide free dental care to 775 needy patients worth $498,368.”

or Career Studies Certificate

Dental Technology is both a science
and an art.

There are more than 50,000 active dental laboratory technicians in the U. S. today creating a $4.57 billion dollar industry. In Virginia, there are roughly 400 commercial dental laboratories. The J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College Dental Laboratory Technology education programs provide outstanding resources and opportunities for prospective dental technicians.

It is the only accredited dental technology program in the Commonwealth and one of 22 such accredited programs in the U. S. JSRCC’s Dental Lab programs are offered at the College’s Downtown Campus – in close proximity to the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry.

How do I become a Dental Laboratory Technician? [back to top]

JSRCC offers a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree on campus, as well as a on-line Career Studies Certificate for employed dental technicians. Hanover County high school students may also earn credits toward their A.A.S. through JSRCC’s Dual Enrollment program. The A.A.S. degree program offers students the opportunity to learn all five specialties in dental laboratory technology. Students may sit for the Recognized Graduate Examination offered by the National Board for Certification at the end of their studies as part of the Certified Dental Technician program. In addition to meeting general admission requirements, an interview with the head of the program is required for admission.

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What does a Dental Laboratory Technician Do? [back to top]

Dental technicians construct:

Ceramic veneers to enhance esthetics.
Ceramic/metal crowns, bridges, and removable partial dentures for patients who are missing only one or a few teeth.
Complete dentures for patients who are missing all of their teeth.
Orthodontic appliances such as retainers to move or maintain tooth position.
Dental technicians fill prescriptions from dentists that describe the specifications of the dental prosthesis to be made. They are valuable members of the dental care team and work directly with the dentist. New technologies such as implants, cosmetic and CAD/CAM dentistry have increased the need for dental laboratory technicians.
Dental technicians work with a variety of materials including waxes, plastics, precious and non-precious alloys, stainless steel, a variety of porcelains and composites or polymer glass combinations. Many technicians acquire skill in the use of sophisticated instruments and equipment such as CAD/CAM systems while performing laboratory procedures. It is important for the technician to help create tooth replacements that are both attractive and functional.

How much money do Dental Lab Technicians make? [back to top]

The amount varies with experience, education and location but beginning graduates make $11 to $16 per hour. According to the National Association of Dental Laboratories, experienced, skilled technicians can expect to earn between $40,000 and $60,000. Experienced technicians can realize significant satisfaction and rewards in commercial laboratories or may choose to be self employed, opening their own dental laboratories for even greater financial reward and independence.

What Is The Job Market? [back to top]

Demand will continue to grow according the American Dental Association and National Association of Dental Laboratories. With the majority of people in the United States becoming older, their dental care will continue to increase. JSRCC faculty assist all students in finding employment positions in area dental laboratories. Over the past 25 years, 98 percent of our graduates have been placed in positions.