The Pasadena City College Restorative Dental Technology Program curriculum prepares a student for employment in a private or commercial dental laboratory or dental office performing restorative dental techniques and procedures. Emphasis is on fundamental and advanced laboratory procedures and concepts in all specialized areas: removable complete dentures, crown and fixed partial dentures, dental ceramics, removable partial dentures, implants, digital dentistry CAD CAM (three levels), and orthodontics and pedodontics. Instruction includes courses in intraoral and facial structures, dental materials, two levels of dental anatomy, articulator instrumentation, functional anatomy, dental calculations, dental laboratory management, Juris prudence, and legalities, as well as workplace readiness and dental communications. Students learn in two fully equipped, state-of-the-art laboratories dedicated to fixed and removable prosthetic fabrication and a digital workflow area. Students learn from caring, dedicated, and experienced faculty.
The Restorative Dental Technology Program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) of the American Dental Association (ADA), a specialized accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education. The Program is also a member of the National Association of Dental Laboratories (NADL). Upon successful completion of the curriculum, a student is eligible to take the written Recognized Graduate Examination given by the National Board for Certification.
A Certificate of Achievement is awarded upon completion of all required courses with a grade of C or better. Pasadena City College will also award an Associate in Science Degree with a major in Restorative Dental Technology upon successful completion of courses prescribed for the Certificate of Achievement in the Restorative Dental Technology Program and completion of certain general education classes. Please consult with a college counselor or the college catalog for more information. Students must provide their own transportation to off-campus laboratory sites for their Clinical Experience course during the second year.
Program Outcomes
- Demonstrate competence in performing basic and advanced level laboratory procedures and techniques required to design and fabricate fixed and removable dental prostheses and basic orthodontic appliances appropriate for an entry-level restorative dental technologist as verified by skills and knowledge specified in the American Dental Association (ADA) Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) Standards for Dental Laboratory Technology.
- Apply basic knowledge of physical properties, uses and manipulation of dental materials to insure proper materials are used in correct proportions for specific restorative procedures and that appropriate safety and disposal procedures are followed.
- Design and fabricate fixed and removable dental prostheses that follow appropriate tooth form and function and take into consideration structures of the oral cavity, determinants of occlusal morphology, and physiology of mandibular movements.
- Use oral, non-verbal, and written communication skills for effective professional interactions in the dental office or laboratory setting. - Function as a member of a diverse dental team demonstrating cultural sensitivity and no biases.
- Be prepared to continue developing their dental, community and world awareness through attending conventions, lectures, and workshops as well as active participation in professional/non-professional organizations.
- Apply ethical and legal principles to the dental laboratory work and apply regulatory considerations related to bloodborne diseases.
- Demonstrate work practices and safety protocols that promote a safe environment.
- Secure employment as an entry-level restorative dental technologist.
- Successfully challenge the Recognized Graduate Examination (the first step in becoming a Board Certified Dental Laboratory Technologist as granted by the National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology).
- Be prepared to transfer to a college or university for upper-level studies in the health field.