Dental Laboratory Technology – AAS
The dental laboratory technologist designs, constructs and repairs dental prosthetic appliances according to the dentist’s prescription and provides essential support services for the dental profession. Dental laboratory technology combines the art, science, technology, design concepts, engineering and business with the ability to understand and interpret dental prescription to create custom dental prostheses.
The program in Dental Laboratory Technology provides a balanced program of study which includes all phases of dental technology (fixed and removable prosthodontics, orthodontics and implants), dental anatomy, occlusion, related sciences (chemistry and materials), the legal and business aspects of dental laboratory operation and courses in general education as required by the Commission on Dental Accreditation.
The Dental Laboratory Technology program at City Tech is the largest in the nation and has always been on the cutting edge. In 1946, it was the first higher education program of its kind in the United States. It was the first dental technology program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association in 1954, the first program to become a Certified Dental Lab (CDL) by the National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology (NBC) in 1995, and the first to purchase and integrate CAD-CAM technology into the curriculum in 2004. Today, the program is a member of the National Association of Dental Laboratories (NADL).
Graduates of the program are prepared for employment in commercial dental laboratories, hospitals, dental schools or dental offices. Some graduates secure employment with dental manufacturers as research assistants or sales representatives. Among the employers of the graduates of this program are Sloane-Kettering Hospital, Veterans Administration Hospital, Columbia Dental School, New York University, New York City high schools, Nobel Biocare, Amann Girrbach, Affordable Dentures, Aspen Dental, Clear Choice and others. Over the years, many graduates have accepted teaching positions in dental technology schools while others become the owners and managers of dental laboratories in the New York area and across the country.
At the end of the fourth semester, students who have completed all laboratory courses are permitted to take the Recognized Graduate Examination, administered by the National Board for Certification (NBC). This is the preliminary examination leading to certification as a Certified Dental Technician (CDT). The final (or practical) portion of the certification examination may be taken in one or more of the specialties (ceramics, crown & bridge, dentures, partial dentures, orthodontics or implants) after gaining proficiency through experience in the field.
Graduates may pursue baccalaureate degrees at City Tech through the CUNY baccalaureate program, the Career and Technical Teacher Education program or the Health Services Administration program.
