About Us

Empowering dental technologists across Sri Lanka with quality products and knowledge

History of Dental Technology in Sri Lanka

In the early years, Sri Lanka had no formal place to study dental technology. The knowledge of the craft was passed down through generations, mainly within families such as the Pathirana, Ilukubura, and Bandara families. After 1890, British dental technicians arrived in Sri Lanka, and Chinese technicians were also known to have worked in the country during this period, introducing modern methods and structured training.

In addition, German technicians also contributed to the local practice, further enriching the early development of the field. Some local learners trained under these foreign experts, while those with greater financial means travelled overseas to study dental technology in depth. One notable pioneer was Mr. Charles Pathirana, who trained from 1911 to 1917 and helped spread the profession across Maradana, Jaffna, Batticaloa, and Kurunegala. These early technicians were highly skilled and qualified, many holding LDS credentials.

Mr. Charles Pathirana

Later, Mr. Banaranayake recognized the expertise of these professionals and granted dental technicians the status of dental doctors, until the University of Peradeniya formally introduced the dental degree program. After 1950, small dental technician societies began to emerge within the country; however, they were informal, unregistered, and ultimately did not achieve long-term success.

By the mid-20th century, Mr. O. G. Gunarathna emerged as a legendary figure who transformed dental technology in Sri Lanka. He introduced major advancements such as bridges and crowns, trained many technicians, and is remembered today as the Father of Dental Technology in Sri Lanka. His contributions shaped the development of the field long after his passing in 2015.

Mr. O. G. Gunarathna

Our Story

Samastha Lanka Dental Technologists Intersociety was founded on 21st October 2008 by Mr. Ajith Pathirana Withanage and Mr. Neil Gunarathna, with a powerful vision: to unite all Sri Lankan dental technologists under one strong and connected community.

The society began at a crucial moment when the Private Health Services Regulatory Council called for the formal regulation of dental technicians on 2nd October 2008. Since facing this challenge individually was difficult for many technicians, our society was created to bring everyone together, provide collective support, and uplift the standards of the profession.

Since then, we have grown into a respected national body, strengthening Sri Lanka’s dental technology field through training programs, workshops, certifications, partnerships, and major events. One of our proud achievements is collaborating with the University of Peradeniya to add a new course specifically designed to support and advance the skills of dental technologists.

Guided by the values of professionalism, unity, trust, innovation, education, quality, and service to the community, we continue to support dental technologists while serving patients—especially those in need of high-quality dentures. Our journey reflects our commitment to advancing the profession and showcasing the excellence of Sri Lanka's dental technology sector.

Our Mission

To provide Sri Lankan dental technicians with a comprehensive platform for knowledge sharing, professional growth, and access to world-class denture products and services that enhance patient care.

Our Vision

To be the most trusted and innovative partner for dental technologists in Sri Lanka, setting the standard for quality, education, and professional excellence in the dental industry.

Our Journey

The milestones that shaped Samastha Lanka Dental Technologists Intersociety

October 2, 2008

The Idea

The vision for Samastha Lanka Dental Technologists Intersociety was born at Ceylon Continental, marking the beginning of a movement to unite dental technologists across Sri Lanka.

October 2, 2008

The Idea

The vision for Samastha Lanka Dental Technologists Intersociety was born at Ceylon Continental, marking the beginning of a movement to unite dental technologists across Sri Lanka.

October 21, 2008

Foundation Meeting

The foundation meeting was held at Jayoda Asliya, Hotel Pilassa, where the groundwork for the organization was officially established.

October 21, 2008

Foundation Meeting

The foundation meeting was held at Jayoda Asliya, Hotel Pilassa, where the groundwork for the organization was officially established.

December 20, 2008

Island-Wide Unity

Successfully gathered dental technologists from all across Sri Lanka, creating a unified voice for the profession nationwide.

December 20, 2008

Island-Wide Unity

Successfully gathered dental technologists from all across Sri Lanka, creating a unified voice for the profession nationwide.

March 2009

First Committee Meeting

The inaugural committee meeting was held in Pittakanda, Kandy, establishing the organizational structure and leadership framework.

March 2009

First Committee Meeting

The inaugural committee meeting was held in Pittakanda, Kandy, establishing the organizational structure and leadership framework.

June 8, 2011

Official Registration

A landmark achievement - Samastha Lanka Dental Technologists Intersociety was officially registered as a society, gaining legal recognition and establishing our formal standing.

June 8, 2011

Official Registration

A landmark achievement - Samastha Lanka Dental Technologists Intersociety was officially registered as a society, gaining legal recognition and establishing our formal standing.

2017

Educational Milestone

Added the Acrylic Dentures Centre Course to the University of Peradeniya curriculum, contributing to professional education and standardization of dental technology training.

2017

Educational Milestone

Added the Acrylic Dentures Centre Course to the University of Peradeniya curriculum, contributing to professional education and standardization of dental technology training.

2026 - Today

Leading the Future

Today, SLDT stands as the premier organization for dental technologists in Sri Lanka, continuing to innovate, educate, and serve our growing community with excellence and dedication.

Our Commitment

We remain committed to advancing dental technology, supporting our members, and maintaining the highest standards of professional excellence. We've developed a modern website by Mr. DG and Mr. GM to better serve our community, provide easy access to information, and enhance member engagement.

2026 - Today

Leading the Future

Today, SLDT stands as the premier organization for dental technologists in Sri Lanka, continuing to innovate, educate, and serve our growing community with excellence and dedication.

Our Commitment

Official Recognition & Certifications

Registered Society

Samastha Lanka Dental Technologists Intersociety is officially registered as a society under the Societies Ordinance of Sri Lanka, demonstrating our commitment to professional standards, transparency, and legal compliance.

This official recognition validates our mission to serve the dental technology community and ensures that we operate with the highest level of accountability and integrity.

What This Means:

✓Legal entity recognized by Sri Lankan authorities
✓Adherence to national regulations and standards
✓Transparent governance and financial management
✓Protection and representation for members

Acrylic Dentures Centre

Our commitment to professional education is exemplified through the Acrylic Dentures Centre workshop, conducted in partnership with the University of Peradeniya in 2017.

This specialized training program focuses on impression techniques and complete denture fabrication through acrylic dentures technology, ensuring our members receive world-class education.

Workshop Highlights:

✓Expert instructors from University of Peradeniya
✓Hands-on practical training in denture technology
✓International microscopic endodontics expertise
✓Continuing professional development certification

Our Leadership Team

Meet the dedicated professionals leading Samastha Lanka Dental Technologists Intersociety

"Our work must find its way into the laboratory and practice. All newly researched findings should be put into practice and all new developments must be tested scientifically and practically. Ultimately, the patient must benefit from the collaboration between the dentist and dental techniciant."

Mr. Neil Gunarathna

President, SLDT

CP-002 | OMI 25

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"Excellence in dental technology requires not just technical skill, but dedication to continuous learning and improvement. Our mission is to ensure every member has access to the resources and knowledge they need to excel in their profession."

Mr. Ajith Pathirana Withanage

Secretary, SLDT

NWP-003 | OMI 50

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"Financial transparency and sustainability are cornerstones of our organization. By managing our resources wisely, we ensure that we can continue to provide valuable services and support to our members for years to come."

Mr. Amith Dhammika

Treasurer, SLDT

NWP-006 | OMI 50

"I consider the constellation of SLDT to be ideal for living a professionally based cooperation in prosthetic dentistry. The close collaboration between the dentist and the dental technician based on scientific findings enables the patient to receive high-quality therapy."

Mr. Chaminda Ranasinghe

Vice President, SLDT

CP-009 | OMI 146

"Building a strong community of dental professionals is essential for advancing our field. Through collaboration, knowledge sharing, and mutual support, we can achieve excellence and better serve our patients across Sri Lanka."

Mr Uditha Abesekara

Vice Secretary, SLDT

NWP-066 | OMI 42