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Clinical Technique & Lab Supplies Whip Mix Insights

NBC Support of Dental Lab Technicians

September 9, 2022 by Kara

Interestingly, it seems the more you know, the more you realize what you don’t know. In support of continuing education, we’d like to recognize the National Board for Certification (NBC) in Dental Laboratory Technician for creating an environment for lab techs to take their skills to the next level and receive recognition for what they do. Currently, this independent board offers certifications for 6 specialties: ceramics, complete dentures, crown and bridge, orthodontics, partial dentures, and implants.

NOTE On January 1, 2023, the CDT classification of materials definition for porcelainceramic is changing. This change will allow

There are three exams required for these certifications:

• A written comprehensive exam
• A written specialty exam
• A practical exam in the same specialty as the written exam

The board requires that the exam questions be subjected to ongoing review to ensure relevance to current practices in dental technology.

The board also recognizes that technology is changing the way we work. In support of digital systems being an integral part of our everyday processes, NBC is working on new updates that will better allow for digital technologies.

On the horizon:

• While still tentative, you may be able to use CAD/CAM and/or 3D printed materials for your practical exam for the crown and bridge specialty beginning in 2023.
• A new specialty, Digital Workflow, is being created for certification at some point next year.

These new opportunities are a welcome addition for those of you already using digital systems. We appreciate the work the board is doing to uphold the integrity of the exam, streamline the exam process, and keep exam criteria secure.

We couldn’t end a piece on CDT’s without giving a “shout out” to the team members at Whip Mix who have received this certification. We appreciate you!

Keep watching for updates from NBC, and if you are considering becoming certified – go for it.