The Digital Age: Vital Improvements in the Dentist-Lab Relationship

Few advancements have changed the way dentists and laboratories function as actively as the introduction of intraoral scanners (IOS). Utilizing an intraoral scanner to create a digital impression eliminates the need for physical impressions. Typically cases are completed in less time and provide the dentist and laboratory with a powerful communication tool. This added communication results in improved quality, efficiency, lower costs, and better patient experience.

Using an intraoral scanner eliminates the process of using a physical impression. The scanner provides an accurate representation of the mouth that the lab can use to fabricate the prescribed restoration. The ability to send a digital file to the laboratory offers many benefits. With digital scans, the data is immediately sent to the laboratory. There is no need to pack and ship any physical materials, like models or impressions. Sending a digital impression not only lowers costs but also improves efficiency. In reality, once the scan is received at the laboratory, the fabrication process can immediately improve turnaround times.

Intraoral scanners provide precise scans that effectively replicate the necessary oral data. With these data points, Burbank Dental Lab can take that information and make excellent restorations that are aesthetically pleasing and have a great fit and sound margins. As a result, remakes become less frequent and save valuable time.

Once a scan is completed in the office, the file can be evaluated in 3D. The dentist and the lab have the opportunity to assess the scan in real-time while the patient is still in the chair. If there are any concerns or any corrections that need to be made, they can be done while the patient is still numb. Dentists can receive feedback on preparation design. Also, screenshots can be shared with the dentist to communicate issues or discuss treatment plans. Ideally, digital scans can be shared, starting with the model work through the final restoration. This process makes communicating more accessible and far more productive.