With over half a century of experience, Peter Mattner, Advanced Dental Technician at Metro South Oral Health, has witnessed significant changes in dental technology, yet remains dedicated to perfecting the craft, mentoring the next generation, and improving patients' lives.
In the early days the dental technician course was an on-the-job apprenticeship which according to Peter, provided a solid foundation in the visual and dexterity skills crucial to the profession.
"The academic side is important to a point, but it's really whether you have the skill and the patience," Peter said.
“The training I had was very original and basic. For one year as a 15-year-old, I just sat there and made bites and trays. All day, for a year. Wow. Guess who made the best bites and trays on the planet after a year.”
“And then with time and mentoring you develop your skill so that every appliance has the quality of care required for a great result, no matter how simple of complex the job is.”
Over the years, Peter has specialized in various aspects of dental technology, from creating dentures to prosthetics for reconstructing faces after cancer surgery.
One of the most profound aspects of his work has been the impact it has on patients' lives.
“Whether it's restoring a smile or helping a patient regain confidence after a traumatic experience, we do the best we can. There's nothing better than seeing a doctor insert a dental appliance and witnessing the transformation it brings to a patient's life.”
“Outcomes like this would not be possible without the close teamwork alongside the dentist operators.”
From the original dental hospital on the second floor above a fire station, to his current office in Woolloongabba, Peter says the field has evolved, with advancements in materials and technology.
The introduction of flexible acrylics, new oral imaging and 3D printing has opened new possibilities, allowing for the creation of lighter, more adaptable dental prosthetics.
"3D printing has been a game-changer, especially in producing hollow structures that are both light and strong,"
However, Peter is quick to point out that traditional techniques remain invaluable, especially when paired with modern innovations.
“You need to be able to make it with your hands first to be able to use the machine to its fullest. Nothing beats the technical skill first.”
The process of crafting dentures, for example, is still much the same as it was 52 years ago.
In addition to his technical skills, works in a mentoring role, hoping to pass on knowledge to the next generation of technicians.
“Thanks must go to the many original technicians who shared their knowledge and experience with me and encouraged me to continually improve. Without their guidance I wouldn’t be where I am today.
“Also, the support that I have received from my line manager and with the dentists that I work with makes it easy to continue to enjoy coming to work and doing what I do.”
Despite being eligible for retirement, Peter continues to work, driven by a love for the craft and the satisfaction of seeing his work make a difference in people's lives.
"I'm happy doing what I do. It gives me a purpose."
For those just starting in the field, his advice is simple yet profound: "Keep life simple and work hard to perfect your craft."
It's a philosophy that has guided him through a long and successful career, and one that he hopes will inspire others to follow in his footsteps.