Laboratory dental technician salary

What Does the Role of Dental Laboratory Technician Entail?

Working as a Dental Laboratory Technician involves being responsible for the manufacturing of dentures, crowns, bridges, and other dental replacements. These professionals play a vital role in dentistry by creating products that improve patients' quality of life. The work requires both technical skill and aesthetic sense, as the results need to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Salary for Dental Laboratory Technicians

The salary for a Dental Laboratory Technician varies depending on experience, workplace, and gender. The average salary for the profession is 38 000 kronor per month. Men in the field earn an average of 40 000 kronor, while women earn 35 700 kronor, meaning that women earn 89% of what men do. An hourly Dental Laboratory Technician has an average hourly wage of 228 kronor, based on 166 working hours per month.

Salary Development and Disparities

Compared to the previous year, the average salary for Dental Laboratory Technicians has increased from 36 800 to 38 000 kronor. The highest salary in the field is 48800 kronor, belonging to a man in the municipal sector with a research education. For women, the highest recorded salary is 42900 kronor. On the other hand, the lowest salary for a woman in the profession is 33900 kronor and for a man is 38600 kronor.

Education and Skills Requirements

Typically, working as a Dental Laboratory Technician requires post-secondary education in dental technology. The education provides the basic knowledge in anatomy, materials science, and techniques for creating dental replacements. For those looking to specialize further, additional training and certifications in specific techniques and materials can be valuable.

Working Conditions and Future Outlook

The work of a Dental Laboratory Technician is often carried out in a laboratory environment where precision and accuracy are crucial. It is important to be able to work independently but also in collaboration with dentists to meet patients' needs and preferences. While there is no specific forecast for the job market for Dental Laboratory Technicians, the profession is part of a larger occupational group that includes dental technicians and orthopedic engineers. Therefore, it can be challenging to predict the demand for Dental Laboratory Technicians specifically.

Challenges in the Profession

One of the biggest challenges for Dental Laboratory Technicians is staying updated with the latest technology and materials in the field. Advancements in digital technology, such as CAD/CAM systems for constructing dental prostheses, mean that continuous learning is a part of professional life.

Benefits in the Field

Benefits can vary depending on the employer and sector. In some private laboratories and larger dental clinics, there may be opportunities for further education and skills development. However, flexible working hours and the possibility of remote work are less common due to the practical nature of the profession.

Considerations When Choosing the Profession

For those considering a career as a Dental Laboratory Technician, it is important to have an interest in detailed and precise work. Good hand-eye coordination and a sense of shape and color are also important qualities. Having an interest in technology and a willingness to learn new methods and tools is advantageous.

Competition in the Field

Competition can vary depending on the region and type of employer. Cities with more dental clinics and laboratories may offer more job opportunities but can also mean tougher competition. To improve one's chances of securing a job, specializing in a specific area or gaining experience through internships or apprenticeships can be a good idea.

In conclusion, the profession of Dental Laboratory Technician offers an opportunity to combine technical skill with creative work. The salary is competitive, but there are still gender-based wage disparities that need to be addressed. For those interested in contributing to people's quality of life and have a passion for craftsmanship and technology, this profession can be an appealing choice.