What You Should Know About CDLs - National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology

Lab Owners Click Here for Certification Information

Certification in the dental laboratory profession is voluntary. Laboratories who have taken the extra steps to become certified represent the top of their field. CDLs have documented not only compliance with peer-defined standards but a desire to stay in the forefront of the industry. A Certified Dental Laboratory takes pride in the quality and professionalism of its products and services.

To maintain certification, a CDL must renew annually and report any changes in the number of laboratory personnel or facilities. A complete review is required if the laboratory has moved locations or undergone significant reconstruction to ensure continual compliance with the CDL program requirements.

Look for the CDL Logo. This insignia ensures you that your lab has achieved the highest standards of laboratory science.

Frequently Asked Questions About CDLs

What is a CDL?

The Certified Dental Laboratory (CDL) provides assurance that a laboratory has met specific standards relating to quality assurance, safety, and business and manufacturing practices. By earning and maintaining the CDL designation, a dental laboratory is always monitoring and attempting to improve the quality and efficiency of their services and facilities.

The CDL is recognized by the National Association of Dental Laboratories (NADL), the American Dental Association (ADA) and the American College of Prosthodontists (ACP). It also receives outstanding support and participation from U.S. military services.

Why should I make sure my dentist uses a CDL?

has regular infection control training and good infection control procedures
ensures adequate supervision of fabricating technicians
upholds quality and safety standards
maintains records of brand specific products they use
meets or exceeds government regulations
has a written re-make policy
uses an alloy labeling system so you can know what's in your mouth
offers area-specific expertise.

The CDL Program does not warrant the efficacy or acceptability of restorations or appliances fabricated in Certified Dental Laboratories. Experience shows, however, that laboratories which submit to voluntary certification are at the forefront of their profession.

As a dentist, why should I care if my laboratory is a CDL?

As a dentist, it is crucial that you are providing quality products and services to your patients. By using a CDL, you are assured - and can reassure your patients - that the laboratory making their appliances:

has regular infection control training and good infection control procedures
ensures adequate supervision of fabricating technicians
upholds quality and safety standards
maintains records of brand specific products they use
meets or exceeds government regulations
has a written re-make policy
uses an alloy labeling system so you can know what's in your mouth
offers area-specific expertise.

Dental laboratories in the United States are not required to be certified. The CDL program creates a means for dental professionals and members of the public to identify dental laboratories which meet specific standards. If you would like to request informational materials for your dental office and patients, send a request by clicking here. The CDL Program does not warrant the efficacy or acceptability of restorations or appliances fabricated in Certified Dental Laboratories. Experience shows, however, that laboratories which submit to voluntary certification are at the forefront of their profession.

How can I encourage my laboratory to be a CDL?

Talk to your laboratory about the CDL Program. If you'd like to click here and provide an address, NBC will send information to them about the CDL Program.

How does the CDL ensure that CDLs stay current?

As a part of the annual renewal process, current CDTs are verified, the ratio of CDTs to other technicians employed in the specialty area is checked, legal and ethical requirements are satisfied and information regarding recent infection control training is collected. Applicants for CDL renewal also complete a self-assessment review to assist with identifying any areas that may need improvement.

If the laboratory has moved locations or undergone significant reconstruction, a Revalidation Application is required to ensure continual compliance with the CDL program requirements and new industry safety or regulatory standards. The revalidation process is similar to the initial application process and requires physical documentation that is reviewed by a third-party to ensure complete compliance.

What are the different specialties available?

In order to be a CDL, there must be one CDT of record within the laboratory. CDLs can receive recognition in a given specialty area if they meet the Specialty Personnel Requirement within a specialty area. Recognition is offered in the following specialty areas Complete Dentures, Partial Dentures, Crown & Bridge, Ceramics, Orthodontics, Implants, and Digital Workflow. In each specialty for which recognition is requested, all work must be done in cooperation with a Certified Dental Technician(s) holding current certification in that specialty. Each CDT must facilitate the technical work of not more than fifteen (15) non-certified technicians employed in the respective specialty.

Is the CDL Program the same as DAMAS?

No. The CDL Program has a greater focus on the safety of workers and the physical facilities of the laboratory itself. The DAMAS Program allows the laboratory to evidence to its dental clients its focus on patient safety in regard to the manufacturing process and traceability of materials. The CDL Program is a great step towards completing the DAMAS Program.