In the world of modern dentistry, dental labs play a vital role in crafting a variety of dental appliances, including implants, bridges, and crowns that perfectly fit each patient’s needs.
From digital impressions to precise restorations, dental laboratories bring together the expertise of dental technicians and the benefits of digital dentistry to allow dentists to deliver the highest standard of dental care to their patients.
This blog post explores the crucial role dental labs play in creating custom crowns, from the initial consultation to the final fitting.
How dental labs work closely with dentists to understand patient needs
The process of creating a custom crown begins with a detailed consultation between the dentist and the patient. Dentists rely on dental laboratories to provide a unique personalised service, ensuring the precise fit and complements the patient’s dental structure. The dental lab receives crucial information, including patient impressions or digital scans, which guide the technicians in crafting the perfect crown.
The transfer of patient information and tooth impressions to the lab
Once the dentist has gathered the necessary information, such as impressions or digital scans using a high quality digital scanner, they send the details to the dental laboratory.
Using the latest scanner technology for taking digital impressions, provides a clear, accurate representation of the patient’s dental structure, allowing technicians to efficiently start the process of creating a crown that will fit seamlessly.
Receiving impressions and scans
The role of dental labs in processing traditional impressions
While digital impressions have revolutionised dentistry, traditional impressions are still used in some cases. Many dental labs are equipped to handle both traditional impressions and digital cases.
In the case of traditional impressions, the dental team carefully process these to ensure that they match the patient’s requirements to support the highest levels of dental care.
The integration of digital scans and their impact on precision
Representing advanced technology, digital impressions and scanning systems have transformed the way dental laboratories operate. Digital impressions are more precise compared to traditional methods, which helps the crown fit perfectly.
This digital workflow allows for greater efficiency in crown production, with minimal adjustments required later in the process.
Selecting materials for the crown
How the lab helps choose the most suitable materials based on the patient’s needs
Choosing the right materials for a custom crown is essential for both aesthetics and longevity. Dental technicians in the lab guide dentists in selecting the ideal materials based on the patient’s individual needs.
Both porcelain and ceramic are great options for patients who may need a stronger material, as well as those seeking aesthetic improvement.
The lab’s expertise in material characteristics
Dental laboratories have a deep knowledge of the materials they work with. From ceramic to zirconia, each material has its own set of benefits. The lab ensures that the material chosen is specifically designed to meet the requirements of the patient, whether it’s for strength, appearance, or durability.
Designing the crown using technology
The use of advanced CAD/CAM systems in crown design
Once the impressions or scans have been received, dental laboratories use advanced CAD/CAM technology to design the custom crown. These systems allow for precise measurements to make sure the design is tailored to the patient’s mouth.
This process provides dental professionals with an accurate digital model, which is essential for the next stages of lab work.
The lab’s role in customising the design for fit, function, and aesthetics
Beyond just designing the crown’s shape and fit, dental labs focus on customising it for functionality and aesthetics.
Technicians carefully consider how the crown will interact with the surrounding teeth and the patient’s bite. They also work on colour matching, ensuring the crown blends seamlessly with the patient’s natural teeth and/or existing implants.
Fabricating the custom crown
The lab’s process of creating the crown using milling machines or 3D printing
Once the design is finalised, the crown is fabricated using advanced manufacturing techniques.
Dental laboratories use milling machines or 3D printers to create the crown, representing the future of dental product fabrication. These machines cut or print the crown with incredible precision, ensuring it matches the design specifications to the finest detail.
Fine-tuning the crown through hand-finishing techniques
While CAD/CAM and digital dentistry have streamlined crown creation, dental technicians still apply their expertise in hand-finishing.
This final step ensures that the crown not only fits perfectly but also has a smooth, polished finish. A laboratory’s commitment to high standards ensures the crown is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Preparing the crown for fitting
How the lab ensures the crown is perfectly shaped and polished
Before the crown is sent back to the dentist, the lab checks the fit, shape, and polish of the final product to ensure it meets the highest standards. Technicians take pride in their work to ensure client satisfaction with the restoration and ensure that every crown is ready for the fitting appointment without the need for major adjustments later on.
The role of the lab in ensuring a precise fit before it is sent to the dentist
Precision is key in custom crown creation. Dental laboratories take the time to ensure that each crown fits the patient’s dental structure accurately. This attention to detail ensures that when the dentist places the crown, it will be comfortable and functional right from the start.
Working with the dentist for final adjustments
The ongoing collaboration between the lab and the dentist during fitting
After the crown is sent to the dentist, any necessary adjustments are made based on the patient’s feedback. Dental labs work closely with dentists to ensure that the crown is fitted perfectly. This ongoing collaboration between the laboratory and dental practice guarantees the best outcome for the patient.
The lab’s role in making any required adjustments based on feedback
If any minor adjustments are needed, laboratories are ready and willing to accommodate these. Whether it’s a slight modification to the shape or a change in colour, dental technicians will make the necessary alterations to ensure the crown fits seamlessly and functions correctly.
Aftercare support and maintenance
The lab’s guidance on crown longevity and care instructions for patients
Proper aftercare can significantly extend the life of the crown. Once the crown is fitted, dental labs gives dentists essential aftercare instructions to pass on to patients. This includes guidance on how to care for the crown, maintain good oral hygiene, and avoid damaging the restoration.
How the lab supports long-term maintenance, repairs, or remakes if necessary
Should any issues arise over time, dental labs are ready to offer support. Whether it’s a repair, remake, or replacement, dental laboratories pride themselves on providing excellent customer service and support. Technicians are always on hand to assist with any long-term maintenance needs.
Come to GoDigital Dental for expertly crafted restorations
Creating custom crowns is a meticulous process that requires the collaboration of skilled professionals and advanced technology.
At GoDigital Dental, we take pride in providing high-quality custom crowns crafted with the latest digital dentistry technologies. Our dental technicians go the extra mile to use advanced tools and digital impressions to ensure a precise, comfortable fit for every patient. With a focus on quality, we offer a range of bespoke services, from crown and bridge restorations to dental implants, all tailored to meet your specific needs.
As a leading dental laboratory in the UK, we are committed to exceeding the expectations of all of our clients, both dentists and patients. Trust our company team to deliver outstanding results with every case, backed by expertise, innovation, and exceptional customer service.
Start sending your digital impressions today and send your first case to experience the difference that precision and technology can make. Connect with us to learn more about how we can support your practice and your patients.
