FAQ
Dental Lab Technician FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a dental lab technician.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a dental lab technician: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about dental lab technicians
Do dental lab techs need a degree?
Not usually; most train on the job.
Is digital dentistry changing the job?
Yes, CAD/CAM and 3D printing are now central.
Is the field growing?
BLS projects a decline, but skilled digital techs remain in demand.
How much does a dental lab technician make?
The median annual wage for dental lab technicians was $49,610 ($23.85 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $36,660 and the highest 10% earned more than $76,940.
How long does it take to become a dental lab technician?
Most people need about 1–2 years of training. A high school diploma plus moderate on-the-job training is typical; some complete dental technology programs.
Do you need a degree to be a dental lab technician?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
Is dental lab technician a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change -5.9% from 2025–35 (a projected decline), with about 3,600 openings each year. Upsides include artistic, technical work; a common challenge is that employment projected to decline.
What skills does a dental lab technician need?
Key technical skills include cad/cam design, model work, porcelain layering, and denture setup. Employers also value patience, artistic eye, and precision.
What certifications are available for dental lab technicians?
Common credentials include Certified Dental Technician (CDT), Recognized Graduate, CAD/CAM manufacturer training, and State registration. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Dental Lab Technician fit quiz, compare with Dentist, or explore Dental Lab Technician training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 51-9081 (Dental laboratory technicians).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Dental laboratory technicians (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.