Dental Material Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the evolving world of dental care, the role of Dental Material Specialists has become increasingly critical.
As dental technologies advance, there is a growing demand for skilled professionals who can understand, handle, and master various dental materials.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Dental Material Specialist?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
- A hiring manager creating the profile of the perfect candidate,
- Or simply intrigued by the intricacies of dental material specialization,
You’re in the right place.
Today, we present a customizable Dental Material Specialist job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right into it.
Dental Material Specialist Duties and Responsibilities
Dental Material Specialists are responsible for managing, procuring, and handling various materials and equipment used in dental procedures.
They also maintain, repair, and calibrate dental machinery to ensure optimal functionality.
Their duties and responsibilities include:
- Order, receive, and manage dental supplies and materials
- Maintain an updated inventory of dental materials and equipment
- Conduct regular checks and maintenance of dental equipment
- Ensure all equipment and materials meet health and safety standards
- Liaise with dental professionals to understand their material needs and preferences
- Research and recommend new dental products and materials to dental professionals
- Facilitate the repair or replacement of faulty dental equipment
- Manage relationships with dental supply vendors
- Stay updated on the latest developments and trends in dental materials and equipment
- Train dental staff on the proper handling and use of new equipment and materials
Dental Material Specialist Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are searching for a skilled Dental Material Specialist to join our dental team.
The Dental Material Specialist will be responsible for evaluating, selecting, and managing all dental materials and instruments used in dental procedures.
This includes researching new materials, ensuring all materials meet industry standards, and training staff on the proper usage and care of the materials.
The ideal candidate is knowledgeable about a variety of dental materials and has experience in a dental office or a similar healthcare setting.
Responsibilities
- Manage all dental materials and equipment used in the clinic
- Evaluate and select materials based on quality, safety, and cost-effectiveness
- Stay up-to-date on advancements in dental materials technology
- Ensure all materials meet industry and safety standards
- Train staff on proper use and care of materials and equipment
- Coordinate with suppliers and vendors for purchasing and maintenance
- Manage inventory and ensure adequate stock levels
- Assist in developing and implementing office protocols for material usage
Qualifications
- Proven experience as a Dental Material Specialist, Dental Assistant, or similar role
- Knowledge of different dental materials and their uses
- Familiarity with dental office procedures and safety standards
- Excellent organizational and inventory management skills
- Strong communication and training skills
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Dental Hygiene, Dentistry, or relevant field
- Dental Materials Certification may be required
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Continuing education opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Dental Material Specialist
- Work Environment: Dental Clinic. Some local travel may be required for vendor meetings or dental conferences.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Dental Office Manager or Dentist.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $70,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does a Dental Material Specialist Do?
Dental Material Specialists work in the dental industry, typically in dental laboratories or clinics, contributing to the creation and management of dental materials used in patient care.
Their primary role is to be proficient in the handling, manipulation, and application of a wide range of materials used in dentistry such as composites, ceramics, alloys, and polymers.
They may be involved in the fabrication of dental prosthetics like crowns, bridges, and dentures or orthodontic appliances.
They often work closely with Dentists and Dental Technicians to ensure the right materials are used for specific procedures and meet the needs of individual patients.
Their responsibilities may also include performing quality control checks on dental materials, conducting research on new materials, and advising on the best materials for specific dental procedures.
In addition, they may be responsible for training other staff in the appropriate use and handling of dental materials, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
Dental Material Specialists also stay up-to-date with advancements in dental materials technology to improve the quality of dental care.
Dental Material Specialist Qualifications and Skills
A proficient Dental Material Specialist should possess skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:
- Extensive knowledge of dental materials, tools, and equipment, including their applications and best practices for maintenance and sterilization.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to identify and solve problems that may arise with dental materials or equipment.
- Excellent organization skills for managing inventories of dental materials and ordering supplies as needed.
- Good communication skills to effectively liaise between dental practitioners, suppliers, and manufacturers.
- Proficiency in using computer systems for inventory management, order processing, and record keeping.
- Physical dexterity and precision to handle small tools and delicate dental materials.
- Strong commitment to adhere to safety, sterilization, and infection control protocols.
- Continual learning and staying updated about the latest advancements in dental materials and technology.
Dental Material Specialist Experience Requirements
Dental Material Specialists typically need at least an associate degree in dental technology or related field, where they gain foundational knowledge about dental materials and processes.
Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often acquired through internships or part-time roles in a dental laboratory or clinic.
They may gain their early experience in roles such as Dental Technician Assistant, Dental Material Handler, or Dental Laboratory Aide.
Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often hone their technical skills and knowledge in entry-level Dental Material Specialist roles.
They have a deeper understanding of dental materials, their properties, and their application in different dental procedures.
Those with more than 5 years of experience usually have advanced proficiency in the use and management of dental materials.
They may have had the opportunity to supervise or train junior staff, making them suitable for higher roles like Dental Material Specialist Team Lead or Manager.
Some dental clinics or laboratories may require their Dental Material Specialist hires to have certifications or advanced experience, especially for roles that involve intricate procedures or managerial duties.
Dental Material Specialist Education and Training Requirements
Dental Material Specialists typically require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in dental technology, materials science or a related field.
They should possess an in-depth understanding of dental materials, such as ceramics, resins, and metals used in the manufacturing of dental prosthetics and appliances.
Advanced roles may require a master’s degree in dental materials or material science.
Some positions might also require the candidate to be a Certified Dental Technician (CDT) with a specialization in dental materials.
In addition to formal education, Dental Material Specialists should have a strong background in laboratory skills, including the use and maintenance of dental lab equipment.
Continuing education and training are critical in this field to stay updated with the latest advancements in dental materials and technology.
Therefore, many professionals pursue additional courses, certifications, or attend workshops and seminars related to dental materials.
Certain states may require Dental Material Specialists to obtain a work license.
The criteria for licensing vary by state but generally require the individual to have completed a state-approved education program and pass a practical examination.
Possessing additional certifications and maintaining ongoing learning not only demonstrates a candidate’s competency but also their commitment to delivering the highest quality of care.
Dental Material Specialist Salary Expectations
A Dental Material Specialist earns an average salary of $68,314 (USD) per year.
However, the actual earnings may vary depending on factors such as the level of experience, professional certifications, geographical location, and the employing organization.
Dental Material Specialist Job Description FAQs
What skills does a Dental Material Specialist need?
A Dental Material Specialist should have strong knowledge of dental materials and equipment, including their properties, uses, and maintenance.
They should have excellent attention to detail for assessing the quality of materials and equipment.
Their job also demands good organizational and inventory management skills, as well as communication skills for coordinating with dental professionals and suppliers.
Do Dental Material Specialists need a degree?
While some Dental Material Specialists may come from a dental background, such as dental hygiene or dental assistance, it’s not always necessary to have a degree.
However, having a degree or certification in a related field, like materials management, supply chain management, or healthcare, can be beneficial.
Having a good understanding of dental procedures and equipment is crucial.
What should you look for in a Dental Material Specialist resume?
Look for candidates with experience in dental materials management or a similar role.
A background in dentistry can be advantageous.
Proficiency in inventory management software and a track record of maintaining accurate records is also important.
Additionally, check for any relevant certifications or training programs they’ve completed.
What qualities make a good Dental Material Specialist?
A good Dental Material Specialist should be meticulous, with a keen eye for detail and quality.
They must be organized and able to manage inventories efficiently.
They should have excellent communication skills to effectively liaise with dental professionals and suppliers.
They should also be proactive in staying updated with advancements in dental materials and equipment.
Is it challenging to hire a Dental Material Specialist?
Hiring a Dental Material Specialist can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the role.
It requires a unique combination of dental knowledge and materials management skills.
Therefore, it’s important to have a thorough hiring process that tests both these aspects.
Offering competitive compensation and continuous training opportunities can attract high-quality candidates.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Today, we’ve delved into the intricacies of what it really means to be a Dental Material Specialist.
And guess what?
It’s not just about knowledge on dental materials.
It’s about shaping the future of oral health, one dental material at a time.
With our go-to Dental Material Specialist job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to make a move.
But why stop there?
Explore more with our job description generator. It’s your next step to precision-crafted listings or perfecting your resume to stand out.
Remember:
Every dental material decision is a part of the bigger picture in oral healthcare.
Let’s shape that future. Together.
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