Dentists collaborate with lab technicians to design and create customized dental appliances, including dentures, implants, and mouthguards. Clear communication between labs and dentists helps verify accurate fitting and color matching. Here are a few ways dentists can communicate with dental labs:
Mail Orders
Mail orders are frequently used during the early and late stages of product development. Dentists can ship impressions of their patients’ teeth to the lab, and the lab usually sends the finished appliances through the mail. To secure products during shipment, each item should be separated and packed with a protective wrap to prevent damage. Small appliances, such as crowns and implant parts, should be sealed in a bag or container.
All shipments from dentists and partner labs must contain a detailed prescription. Mabel Dental provides prescription forms for specific products, as well as a universal prescription form. These forms outline key appliance details, including:
- Preferred appliance material
- Tooth shade and staining
- Occlusal clearance
- Implant type
- Pontic design
Digital Files
Digital files help streamline communication between dentists and dental labs, as they minimize wait times and project completion timelines. Many labs accept digital impressions from the major types of intraoral scanners. Dentists can connect directly to our lab through their scanner by entering our company ID or submitting a partnership request. Dentists using non-supported scanners are able to send digital impressions through DDX.
Case Management Platforms
Secure online platforms enable dentists and labs to exchange information, including case details, images, and prescriptions. A centralized system makes it easy for dental partners to stay up-to-date on changes in case requirements or project timelines. This helps prevent errors during appliance development, reducing the need for refitting.
Some case management platforms serve as a case archive, enabling dentists and labs to access previous prescriptions. This is beneficial when updating orthodontics or removables to meet changing needs. The platform may also easily integrate with an office’s patient portals or other workflow software. Secure data transfer allows providers to access key case information from any device, which is helpful for those with offices in multiple locations.
Customer Support
Customer service teams are available to answer client questions during operating hours. Mabel Dental offers local and toll-free phone numbers to support clients nationwide, as well as a fax machine for sending and receiving case information. A dedicated email address is available for dentists who have technical questions or need to send case files and photos. This enables technicians to quickly review and respond to project inquiries without having to sort through general information requests. An online contact form makes it easy for potential partners to connect with our team to learn more about products and services.
Partner With Dental Labs Today
Clear methods of communication allow dentists and labs to adjust to changing patient needs. Detailed prescriptions and real-time updates on case management platforms help eliminate errors to verify that each appliance meets functional and aesthetic requirements. Mabel Dental also provides estimates for project completion, enabling dentists to schedule timely fittings and follow-ups with their patients. Contact us today to learn more.
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