What are the responsibilities and job description for the Stain and Glaze Technician position at Catalis Dental Lab Partners?
About Us:
Avaneer Dental Studio, part of the Catalis Dental Lab Partners premier network, is an innovative dental laboratory specializing in high-quality restorations. We are seeking a skilled Porcelain Technician with a strong understanding of natural dentition morphology to join our Fixed Department. This role requires a balance of artistic craftsmanship and efficiency to ensure both quality and quantity in production.
Job Summary:
The Stain and Glaze Technician is responsible for applying MiYO stains, glazes, and finishing techniques to dental restorations to ensure both aesthetic appeal and functional durability. This position requires a skilled technician with expertise in porcelain and ceramic materials, attention to detail, and a passion for creating high-quality, natural-looking dental restorations. The technician works closely with the dental laboratory team to produce restorations that meet or exceed client expectations.
Key Responsibilities:
-
Staining and Glazing:
- Apply stain and glaze techniques to dental ceramics, porcelain, and other materials to achieve natural tooth color, texture, and aesthetics.
- Customize the shade and translucency of restorations to match the patient’s natural dentition based on provided prescriptions or specifications.
- Prepare porcelain and ceramic restorations by using staining materials, underglaze, and glaze to replicate the appearance of natural teeth.
- Carefully apply glaze to the restoration for a smooth, polished finish that enhances durability and appearance.
-
Quality Control:
- Inspect completed restorations for accuracy, uniformity, and aesthetic quality, ensuring that all products meet or exceed industry standards and client expectations.
- Make necessary adjustments to the stain or glaze to improve the appearance or functionality of restorations.
- Ensure that each restoration is properly cured, polished, and finished before delivery to clients or further processing.
-
Materials Handling:
- Select and use the appropriate MiYO stains, glazes, and finishing materials for each restoration, based on the material type (e.g., porcelain, zirconia, ceramic).
- Maintain knowledge of current trends in stain and glaze materials to continually improve the final product’s aesthetics and durability.
-
Collaboration:
- Work closely with other dental technicians, including those working in CAD/CAM, milling, and other sections of the lab, to ensure a seamless workflow and consistent quality of final products.
- Communicate with the laboratory manager or supervisor to ensure that specific requirements or requests for each restoration are met.
-
Equipment and Maintenance:
- Operate and maintain specialized equipment used in the staining and glazing process, including furnaces, kilns, and polishing tools.
- Regularly check equipment and tools for proper function, cleanliness, and safety. Report any issues to the supervisor.
-
Documentation and Record-Keeping:
- Maintain accurate records for each restoration, including materials used, color specifications, and any adjustments made during the staining and glazing process.
- Ensure all products are properly tagged and tracked in the laboratory’s inventory and production system.
-
Safety and Cleanliness:
- Follow all safety guidelines and regulations when handling chemicals, glazes, and other materials.
- Maintain a clean and organized work environment, ensuring that all materials are stored and disposed of correctly.
Qualifications:
- Proven experience as a Stain and Glaze Technician or in a similar role in a dental laboratory.
- Expertise in working with porcelain, ceramics, and other dental restoration materials.
- Strong understanding of staining, glazing, and finishing techniques to create natural-looking restorations.
- Knowledge of dental anatomy and an ability to replicate natural tooth color, texture, and translucency.
- Familiarity with lab equipment, including furnaces, kilns, and polishing tools.
- Excellent attention to detail, with an eye for aesthetic quality and precision.
- Ability to work efficiently and independently, while also collaborating with other laboratory team members.
- High school diploma or equivalent; additional education or certifications in dental technology is a plus.
- Certification as a dental technician (e.g., CDT) is desirable.
Skills and Abilities:
- Strong artistic and aesthetic skills, with the ability to create highly detailed and lifelike dental restorations.
- Excellent manual dexterity and attention to detail.
- Ability to follow specific instructions and achieve desired results based on client needs.
- Good communication skills for collaborating with other lab staff and understanding the requirements of the project.
- Ability to troubleshoot and resolve issues related to staining or glazing imperfections.
Working Conditions:
- Work will be performed in a dental laboratory environment.
- Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, and safety glasses is required.
- Occasional standing or sitting for long periods.
- Exposure to chemicals, materials, and laboratory equipment used in the staining and glazing process.
Why Join Us?
- Work in a state-of-the-art dental lab with cutting-edge technology.
- Competitive salary with opportunities for growth and skill development.
- Be part of a team of passionate, skilled technicians dedicated to excellence.
- Exposure to advanced ceramic techniques and new material innovations.