What appealed to you about your course?
I loved the fact that the BSc Dental technology at the University of Greater Manchester is a hands-on course. I always enjoyed working with my hands and creating things, so a course where I could create and produce dental devices looked like the perfect fit for me. I was also fascinated by how dental technology impacts patients, even though it's not a particularly well-known profession.
How did you get your job?
I completed a work placement with Avant Garde Dentistry. After my placement, I was offered the opportunity to stay and have now been working there for over a year. Before completing one year, I received a dental lab award.
What's a typical working day like?
I usually start the day by reviewing the cases assigned to me via lab tickets, checking the prescriptions through our online portal, the target dates for each case and the material. This helps me plan my time.
For example, I might have a 20 unit printed or milled crown/veneer where I need to check the wax before printing or milling the final material. At this stage I check for any issues, and if there are none the final material can be printed or milled.
Finally, I start by trimming, checking the bite/occlusion, finishing and polishing following the lab ticket. This can be a very smooth process but not every case is straightforward - sometimes there is an issue with the design, and I need to communicate with the designer to make sure the work meets the clinical requirements.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Knowing that the work I do can have a positive impact on a patient's life is very rewarding. Working behind the scenes, technicians play an important role in helping patients regain their confidence, comfort and quality of life.
I also enjoy the creative side of the job, as every case is different and allows me to develop my skills. Seeing the final result and knowing a patient will benefit from it is very gratifying.
What are the challenges?
One of the main challenges is working under pressure and meeting deadlines, especially when managing multiple cases at the same time. Some cases can be complex and require a lot of attention to detail, precision and problem solving. However, I always think that on the other side there is a patient excited and waiting for their dream smile, so this makes every stressful moment worth it.
How is your degree relevant?
My degree is highly relevant as it provided me with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed in dental technology. During the course, I gained an understanding of dental materials, digital workflows, anatomy and laboratory procedures, while also gaining hands-on experience. The course prepared me for the fast-paced laboratory environment and gave me the confidence to apply my technical and artistic skills in real cases.
With the advancement in dental technology, the industry is becoming more digital, so learning CAD/CAM systems and digital workflows is very beneficial.
How has your role developed and what are your career ambitions?
Since starting as a junior dental technician, I have become more confident and independent in managing cases and working with different materials and digital technologies. I continue to improve my skills every day and learn from more experienced technicians around me.
In the future, I would like to expand my knowledge and specialise in more complex cases such as implantology.
What advice can you give to others wanting to get into this job?
- Be patient and willing to learn. Dental technology requires time, practice and attention to detail. I remember my first day on placement when I was asked to do something completely new that I'd never done at university before. I struggled for a few days but didn't give up. I practised a lot, stayed determined and eventually became one of the best at it in the lab. That experience taught me the importance of staying motivated, being patient with yourself and continuously improving your skills.
- Take every opportunity to gain practical experience. Placements and laboratory experience are extremely valuable because they help you understand the workflow, improve your communication skills and build confidence in a real working environment.
- You must be very organised. Dental laboratories are fast paced, and you must be able to remain calm under pressure.
Find out more
