A dental technician is a person who constructs restorative and dental tools upon the request of a dentist. The dental technician receives information from the dentist such as measurements and drawings as well as prescriptions to create a dental model or replica of the patient's anatomy. The technician constructs a dental tool or appliance based from the dental impressions on the model.

A fixed dental restoration is an appliance created to replace a tooth or set of teeth that had been lost or damaged. These appliances can never be removed by the patient once the dentist puts them in place. Examples of fixed restoration include crowns, bridges, veneers, inlays and onlays.

Removable dental restorations, on the other hand, are dental appliances that are created to replace a tooth or set of teeth that had been lost or damaged, but can be removed by the patient for cleaning. These appliances are retained by the patient's soft tissue as in full dentures, supported by other teeth or on implant attachments as with partial dentures and overdentures.

Orthodontic technicians are those who create removable orthodontic appliances with wires, springs and screws to either move teeth to a desired aesthetic appearance or to maintain the position of previously moved teeth.

How to choose the best dental technician school

• Check the school for the program requirements and see if you have met them. Check also for prerequisites such as special skills or previous experience.
• Consider the length of the program to determine whether it suits the timeline of your career goals that you have developed.
• The school should be able ensure that you will be able to gain experience enough for the job and help you gain valuable contacts as well.

How to choose the right dentist

• Know the kind of dentist you need since not all dentists are equal. There are many different distinctions within the dental community and doing a little research might help you find the right type of dentist you need.
• Always check the credentials of the dentist. Ask for their credentials and proof of their experience in dentistry. You can also check the websites of some clinics and hospitals. You can also search for the dental office and read the reviews from previous patients there.
• Choose a dentist that will take your insurance or provide you with a payment plan that meets your needs. It is important that your financial requirements are met along with your health and dental needs.
• Check the location and the hours of operation of the dental clinic. Choose a dentist that's near your place so you can never be late for an appointment. Stop by the office of your potential new dentists and see if you will be comfortable there.
• Set up a consultation ahead of your appointment to get your questions answered and to meet the staff that is in the office.
• Ask your new dentist if they offer patient comfort services to make your visit as comfortable as possible. Some dental offices offer refreshments and complimentary wellness services such as hot towels.
• Find out how long it takes to get an appointment. This would give you an idea of what kind of service you will be getting from the dentist.