Individuals who are interested in learning dental ceramics techniques should complete a dental laboratory technology certificate program available at technical schools or community colleges. This type of program lasts a year or less. To get into a dental ceramics training program, students must have a high school diploma or GED. Students who earn their dental ceramics certificate also can pursue an associate degree in dental laboratory technology. This two-year degree program covers all five of the industry's specialties, which additionally include complete dentures, partial dentures, orthodontic appliances and crowns/bridges.
Hands-on courses in a dental ceramics training program go over how to create wax patterns for porcelain-fused-to-metal restorations and areas of potential porcelain failure, according to Pima Community College in Arizona. Students also learn how to finish metal frameworks and how to condition metal surfaces to make the bonding of ceramic to metal most efficient. Other topics at schools such as Newton International College in California include soldering as well as model and die prepration. The techniques learned help students work with a variety of porcelain-fused-to-metal restorations such as splints and pontics.
Dental ceramics techniques covered in a college training program additionally include the construction, fabrication and finishing of porcelain margins. Students also learn how to layer ceramics to achieve the right contour, how to add on porcelain when dealing with shrinkage, and how to stain and glaze porcelain-fused-to-metal restorations. They review how to operate a porcelain furnace and learn how occlusion plays a role in developing restorations as well.
Training in dental ceramics techniques prepares students to become a certified dental technician through the National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology. Students must complete three tests in a four-year period, which include a 160-question comprehensive written exam, a specialty practical exam in an area such as ceramics and an 80-question specialty written exam. Individuals who are certified have greater career opportunities and must complete continuing education requirements to keep their credential current.