The evolution of the dental laboratory: Stephen Green’s path from traditional to digital dentistry

A founder’s story with Stephen Green, who shares his journey from traditional dental technology to running a modern digital dental laboratory.  

Stephen’s journey into dental technology

The modern dental laboratory looks very different from the one Stephen Green entered in Nottingham in 1975. Over more than 50 years in dental technology, Stephen has seen the industry move from traditional, hand-crafted techniques to today’s fully digital dental lab workflows. 

Before digital dentistry became the standard across the UK, Stephen was already asking a simple question: what comes next? 

Stephen’s journey into dental technology began when he trained through a traditional City & Guilds apprenticeship. At the time, dental laboratories were built on craftsmanship, detailed handwork in dentures, crown and bridge restorations, and orthodontics. Every case demanded precision, patience, and technical skill. 

But even then, Stephen saw beyond the bench. 

“I’ve always believed that if you’re not moving forward, you’re falling behind.” 

In 1988, he founded Stephen Green Dental Studio, a dental laboratory that would become one of the most respected in the UK. Built from the ground up, the lab developed a reputation for high-end technical work, strong clinician relationships, and a forward-thinking approach to both business and dentistry. 

Over time, that approach would lead to national recognition, multiple industry awards, and a clear position at the forefront of innovation in dental technology. After 30 years at the helm, Stephen sold Stephen Green Dental Studio in 2018, marking the end of one chapter in his career and paving the way for what would come next.

Embracing digital dentistry before it was mainstream 

As digital dental technology began to emerge, many laboratories were cautious. The shift from analogue techniques to digital workflows wasn’t just technical; it challenged long-established ways of working, and traditional processes that relied on physical impressions, models, and manual design found themselves up against digital scanning, computer-aided design, and computer-controlled manufacturing.

Instead of fighting the change, Stephen took a different view. 

He invested early in CAD-CAM dentistry, integrating digital design and manufacturing into the laboratory. CAD, or computer-aided design, allowed technicians to design restorations digitally, while CAM, or computer-aided manufacturing, enabled those designs to be produced using computer-controlled milling technology. This move positioned his business as one of the most advanced digital dental labs in the UK at the time.

As digital dentistry developed, intraoral scanning and digital impressions also began changing the way information was transferred from the dental practice to the laboratory, replacing many of the physical steps involved in sending a case to a lab. 

“It wasn’t just about the technology. It was about changing how we think. You’re taking highly skilled technicians and asking them to trust a completely new workflow.” 

Additionally, CAD-CAM systems allowed for greater precision, consistency, and scalability, particularly in complex implant cases and cosmetic restorations, which was where Stephen really saw the potential. The transition to digital wasn’t always easy, but it proved transformative. 

Working closely with Henry Schein UK, the lab supplier, Stephen and team trained many of the UK’s leading lab technicians through this partnership and helped them develop and scale their respective businesses in the new digital world. 

It also laid the groundwork for something bigger. 

GoDigital Dental Lab 

GoDigital Dental, a modern, fully digital dental laboratory, was developed around everything he had learned over decades in the industry. 

The goal was clear: a digital dental lab in the UK that combines advanced technology with real clinical understanding and a high level of customer service. 

GoDigital Dental focuses on: 

• High level of customer communication and service 
• Digital workflows and CAD-CAM dental solutions 
• Ongoing training in the latest technology 
• Implant dentistry and full-arch restorations 
• Consistent, high-quality outcomes for clinicians and patients 

GoDigital Dental has grown into a successful operation, reflecting both market demand and a clear, well-executed vision. 

But for Stephen, growth has never been the only measure of success. 

“It’s about reliability, consistency and customer service. Dentists need to know they can trust what you deliver, on time-every time.” 

Stephen’s contributions to the dental laboratory industry 

Stephen’s impact extends far beyond the laboratories he has developed. 

He has played an active role in the wider dental industry, including: 

• Serving on the Dental Laboratories Association (DLA) Council 
• Acting as DLA Treasurer 
• Delivering lectures on implantology, advanced ceramics, and dental business development 
• Teaching and mentoring future dental technicians at the Nottingham People’s College

Through apprenticeships and formal teaching roles, he has helped develop the current and next generation of dental technology professionals, many of whom work in leading dental labs across the UK. 

Combining experience with innovation 

Today, digital dentistry continues to evolve rapidly. From new materials to advanced scanning and manufacturing techniques, with milling technology allowing digitally designed restorations to be manufactured from materials like zirconia and dental ceramics, the pace of change shows no sign of slowing. 

For Stephen, the key is balance. 

“Technology will always move forward. But the fundamentals still matter: understanding the case, attention to detail, and communication with clinicians.” 

Digital tools may change how a restoration is designed and manufactured, but they don’t remove the need for a skilled dental technician to understand the clinical requirements and make informed technical decisions throughout the process. 

Philosophy is at the core of GoDigital Dental. It’s not just about being a digital dental lab; it’s about being a reliable partner in modern dentistry. 

By combining decades of experience with cutting-edge CAD-CAM systems and digital workflows, the lab delivers solutions that meet the demands of today’s clinicians, maintaining the craftsmanship the profession was built on and delivering excellent customer service. 

Looking ahead for digital dental laboratories 

From a traditional apprentice in Nottingham to a leading digital dental laboratory in the UK, Stephen Green reflects the evolution of an entire industry. 

And while the tools and technologies have changed, the mindset that drove that journey remains the same. 

Keep learning. Keep adapting. Keep moving forward and always put the client first. 

That is the principle behind GoDigital Dental, and it’s what continues to shape its future. 

Featuring Stephen Green 
Founder & Dental Laboratory Expert 
50+ years in dental technology