Certification is the process of assessing a dental technician's knowledge and applied skill level necessary to perform the tasks required of a dental technician. The skill standard, based upon this knowledge and applied skill, is the level required to perform successfully and is the baseline for certification testing. Once the dental technician successfully passes the examination, they are then considered a Certified Dental Technician and issued the CDT designation.

Although certification is costly and requires a sustained commitment, it has many benefits for dental technicians, laboratory owners and the dental customer. CDTs have not only demonstrated competency, but they have shown determination and commitment in completing the certification process. The attained skill and knowledge of the CDT is highly desirable to laboratories. Having this certification provides the dental technician with the advantage of higher salaries, advancement and job satisfaction.

The extensive knowledge gained by the CDT during the required continuing education process assures the laboratory owner, dental customer and the public that this individual is a true student of the profession with a solid commitment to remain at the cutting edge of his or her field.
www.nbccert.org

Linda McGee has been in this industry since 1967 and been a CDT in Ceramics for 22 years now. She graduated from William Moultrie High School in Mt. Pleasant, SC, and hopes to “reach my full potential and foster growth in my field and in all my relationships.” As the vanguard for SCS, she spends much of her time in the laboratory; but, when not at work, Linda loves spending time with her horses and fishing, hunting, and dancing with her husband, Jerry. Her life is rounded out by three grown daughters and 6 grandchildren of various ages.

Cindy Porter has been in the industry for 26 years. She earned a home school GED and graduated from Weslyn College of Dental Technology in CA. She is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. Her goal is to “achieve the highest knowledge and skill possible.” She notes that the CDT was the most challenging test she has ever taken and yielded the greatest feeling of gratification afterwards. She appreciates her co-workers as the “best team of people ever. Studying and helping each other is the spirit of SCS!” Congratulations, Cindy, on earning your CDT in Crown and Bridge!

Yola Dabrowski has been in the industry for 15 years. She graduated from high school in Warsaw, Poland. She likes to read books, collect antiques, and is an avid history buff. Her goal is to “never stop learning and to continue improving her performance in the dental technology field.“ She appreciates the Suncoast Team’s willingness to share knowledge and experience; and, that same team is proud of her becoming a CDT in Ceramics!

Julie Dasinger has been in the industry for 11 years. She graduated from Plant City High School, Plant City, FL. Her favorite pastime is photography and she uses her talents while camping with her husband, Brian, and their 2 “dog kids”, Pete and Lucy. She appreciates working with such a talented, dedicated team and her goal is to become well versed on the CEREC 3, inLab system. Congratulations on your CDT certification in Ceramics, Julie!