Dental and Ophthalmic Lab Tech Salary: $47,060 median (2025 data)
The median annual wage for dental and ophthalmic laboratory technicians and medical appliance technicians is $47,060, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to about $23 an hour, with the typical range spanning from $35,230 to $74,440 for the middle 90% of earners. The occupation employs about 64,350 people across the country.
How much Dental and Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians and Medical Appliance Technicians earn
The median pay of $47,060 means half of these techs earn more and half earn less. The bottom 10% make around $35,230 or less, while the top 10% earn $74,440 or more. The mean hourly wage is roughly $23.
These figures come from the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) for May 2023. Actual pay varies by specialty (dental lab vs. ophthalmic vs. medical appliance), experience, and location.
Pay by state
The BLS does not publish highest- or lowest-paying states specifically for this occupation. However, typical patterns hold: states with higher cost of living, such as California or Massachusetts, tend to pay above the national median, while states like Mississippi or Arkansas pay below. For precise state figures, check the BLS OEWS data by state.
How to become Dental and Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians and Medical Appliance Technician
Most technicians learn through on-the-job training, though some complete certificate or associate degree programs in dental laboratory technology, ophthalmic laboratory technology, or orthotics/prosthetics. The U.S. does not have a universal licensing requirement for these roles, but certification is available through organizations like the National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology or the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics.
- Earn a high school diploma or equivalent (required for most jobs).
- Enroll in a postsecondary training program (1–2 years) in dental lab tech, ophthalmic lab tech, or orthotics/prosthetics.
- Gain on-the-job experience, often through an apprenticeship or entry-level position.
- Consider voluntary certification to enhance job prospects.
- Maintain skills with continuing education as technology evolves.
Job outlook
The BLS does not publish a specific growth projection for this occupation from 2024 to 2034. However, demand for dental and ophthalmic services is tied to population aging and healthcare needs, which may support steady employment. Technicians with advanced skills in computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) could have an edge.
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest-paying state for dental and ophthalmic lab technicians?
BLS state-level figures are not released for this specific occupation, but higher-paying states generally include California, New York, and Massachusetts.
Do dental lab technicians need a license?
No states currently require a license for dental laboratory technicians. Certification is voluntary but can improve job opportunities.
What is the typical work environment for these technicians?
Most work in labs or manufacturing facilities, often for dental or ophthalmic product manufacturers, hospitals, or independent labs. The work involves handling small tools and precision instruments.
How long does it take to become a medical appliance technician?
Training for orthotic/prosthetic technicians typically involves a one- to two-year certificate or associate degree, plus on-the-job training. Full competency may take several years.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Dental and Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians and Medical Appliance Technicians data.