CDL Application Process - National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology

Potential Certified Dental Laboratory (CDL) Information

Certification is the professional standard in dental laboratory technology. It is the means to identify the dental technicians and dental laboratories that have demonstrated their technical qualifications against a national standard and displayed their commitment to maintaining quality within dental technology. Since certification is voluntary, laboratory certification represents not only compliance with documented standards but a desire to be an industry leader - a dental laboratory that takes pride in the quality and professionalism of its products and services.

Download CDL Handbook & Application Here

A Certified Dental Laboratory (CDL) must:

Employ Certified Dental Technicians. A Certified Dental Laboratory (CDL) must employ Certified Dental Technicians (CDT's) -- who are subject to strict continuing education requirements.
Document facility compliance with accepted health and safety standards. The CDL Board seeks to assure that Certified Dental Laboratories are well equipped to provide the service you require, and that they comply with necessary standards of occupational health and safety. The Board encourages standards of lighting, ventilation and overall maintenance that will make the laboratory a desirable working environment that will attract technicians who are committed to high standards for themselves and their vocation.
Maintain high levels of training and practice in infection control. For a dental laboratory to provide professional-level support to dentistry, its technicians must keep pace with new technological developments, current theory, and practice in dental restorations. CDL Guidelines further recommend that all employees of Certified Dental Laboratories be offered continuing education opportunities on a regular basis.

CDL standards closely align with legal requirements with the OSHA standards for hazard communication and Bloodborne pathogen exposure control that are laws for employers today. By implementing the equipment elements of the CDL standard, your laboratory will be better prepared for an OSHA audit.

Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a CDL

Why should my laboratory be a CDL? What benefit will I see?

In the field of dental technology, there are both technicians and dental laboratory owners/managers who desire to achieve and be recognized for their advanced levels of professionalism. For the laboratory owner/manager, the NBC administers the Certified Dental Laboratory program.

The certification process includes the establishment and enforcement of peer-defined standards. CDLs must demonstrate compliance with requirements pertaining to employee safety and education, physical facility equipment and processes, quality assurance procedures, policies for billing and re-work circumstances and others. This designation requires stringent infection control and case management standards with at least one Certified Dental Technician employed within the laboratory.

For those laboratories who are CDLs, the certification program offers:

An incentive to increase quality and efficiency;
Criteria for maintaining facility and management standards;
Improved business opportunities;
Peer recognition; and
Enhanced professional visibility.

Why should I make sure my doctor clients care?

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 as well.

Certification is a national program. Since it is voluntary, it represents not only compliance with documented standards but a desire to be an industry leader with a commitment to quality and professionalism.

For those who work with CDLs, certification offers:
- An enhanced perception of the value of laboratory services;
- Increased respect for extra effort required to obtain and retain certification;
- Assurance that quality and safety standards are important in your laboratory; and
- Confidence that your laboratory offers specific expertise in the area of your specialties.

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.

How can I encourage my laboratory to be a CDL?

Make sure that your laboratory owners and managers are aware of the CDL program. Click here to have information sent to them about the CDL Program from the NBC.

What are the requirements to be a CDL?

To be eligible for certification, a laboratory must be actively engaged in fabricating prosthetic devices or appliances according to prescriptions or work authorizations from legally authorized sources. Certification shall apply only to the applicant laboratory, its facilities and personnel. To be eligible to become a Certified Dental Laboratory, a laboratory must meet all applicable standards specified.

Complete requirements are provided in the CDL Handbook & Application

How much does it cost?

The initial application process costs $450.00 and includes one Independent Renew and on year of certification. Annual Renewal fees are $250.00.

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.

How long does it take to get the CDL certification?

Once the CDL application and all required documentation have been received, it usually takes between between 4 and 6 weeks for the certification review. Results from the review will be shared with the applicant immediately.

How often do I have to renew the CDL and what does renewal entail?

The CDL must be renewed annually. 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, information regarding recent infection control training is collected and a fee of $250 is assessed. Applicants for CDL renewal are also required to complete a checklist-style self assessment review.

A Revalidation Application is required when the lab has changed locations or undergone significant reconstruction to ensure continual compliance with the CDL program requirements and new industry safety or regulatory standards. A Revalidation Application will be sent to your laboratory by NBC Staff with instructions at least 90 days before it is due. The revalidation process is similar to the initial application process. CDLs must demonstrate ongoing compliance with CDL requirements. The cost is $350.00 and includes one Independent Review and the annual renewal fee for that year.

Is this the same as DAMAS?

No. The CDL Program has a greater focus on the safety of workers and the physical facilities of the laboratory. 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.