Dental instrument assembler
Also known as: orthodontic instruments assembler, dental imaging device assembler, dental device fabricator, dental instrument production assembler, dental equipment assembler, dental laser assembler
About this occupation
Dental instrument assemblers assemble various dental instruments, such as drills, lasers, probes, mirrors, and dental imaging devices. They use various machinery, hand tools, chemicals, adhesives and epoxies to assemble the dental instruments. They use precision tools and work in cleanroom environments.
Essential skills and knowledge
- operate precision measuring equipment
- dental instrument components
- manipulate dental material
- report defective manufacturing materials
- inspect quality of products
- medical device regulations
- ensure conformity to specifications
- read assembly drawings
- dental anatomy
- carry out measurements of parts
- quality standards
- manufacture dental instruments
Typical tasks and preparation
From the related US occupation profile Dental Hygienists (O*NET 29-1292.00). Linked by an official crosswalk: related, not identical; details vary by country.
- Record and review patient medical histories.
- Feel and visually examine gums for sores and signs of disease.
- Examine gums, using probes, to locate periodontal recessed gums and signs of gum disease.
- Clean calcareous deposits, accretions, and stains from teeth and beneath margins of gums, using dental instruments.
- Provide clinical services or health education to improve and maintain the oral health of patients or the general public.
- Chart conditions of decay and disease for diagnosis and treatment by dentist.
- Typical education (US)
- Associate's Degree or other 2-year degree
- Preparation
- Job Zone 3 of 5
- Interests
- Social, Realistic, Investigative
Top skills: Active Listening, Speaking, Critical Thinking, Writing, Monitoring, Social Perceptiveness
US median pay: US$98,100 a year (2025), 222,740 employed. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.
Preparation needed
Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed
- Most common education (US)
- Associate's Degree or other 2-year degree
- Education
- Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
- Experience
- Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
- Training
- Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
O*NET data describe work in the United States; requirements differ by country. This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. CareerProof Global has modified all or some of this information; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.
Related occupations
Occupations O*NET links to this one by similar work, skills and knowledge.
- Dental Assistants
- Surgical Assistants
- Medical Assistants
- Veterinary Technologists and Technicians
- Ophthalmic Medical Technicians
- Surgical Technologists
- Registered Nurses
- Respiratory Therapists
- Acute Care Nurses
- Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses
O*NET data describe work in the United States; requirements differ by country. This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. CareerProof Global has modified all or some of this information; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.