Here are three questions to ask when searching for the right dental laboratory to use for your practice:

1 - How Does the Dental Lab Carry Our Quality Control Checks?

A dental lab that rushes to get work out the door without inspecting it for quality isn’t reliable, so you’ll need to determine how the lab in question performs quality control checks. Many dental processes are labor-intensive, requiring several complicated steps to complete, like creating a single porcelain-fused-to-metal crown. You’ll want to find out who is responsible for overseeing these procedures, ensuring they’re done correctly, and how they do this. For example, do they have a checklist, or is there an authority inspecting the work at each stage?

It’s important to note that some labs consist mostly of part-time employees, which means that the lab may not perform these quality checks at all. When inquiring about their practices, be sure to ask how the dental lab handles their quality control.

2 - Do They Use ADA-Approved Products and Materials?

Unfortunately, some dental labs try to cut corners and costs by copying another manufacturer’s alloy for cheaper. Knockoffs are frequently half the original quality, so be sure to ask the lab if they use ADA-approved materials. You can request the lab for an IdentAlloy® sticker, which the lab must apply to all invoices to certify the alloy they used. 

You’ll also need to ensure that the lab uses genuine material for crowns, as there are numerous kinds of zirconia available on the market. Ask the lab if they are authorized to produce Captek™ crowns and that they aren’t instead advertising the manufacturing of “Captek” material, which has vastly different levels of quality.

3 - Does The Dental Laboratory Manufacture Locally or Do They Send It Overseas?

Some labs send work overseas, specifically to The Philippines, South Korea, and China, to save on costs. The labor cost in these countries is low, and these labs often entrust work to them without informing the practice. However, some of these countries do not adhere to the FDA or ADA compliance laws, ensuring that the materials used are safe and non-hazardous. 

Properly crafted ADA-approved materials are usually more expensive than $150. If a prospective lab asserts that they can get these materials at a lower price, they’re likely sending work overseas but claiming it as their own.

Partner with A Dental Laboratory You Can Trust

Partnering with a reputable lab is more integral to a dental practice’s success than many dentists think. They play a huge role in dental treatment, so it’s best to find a dental lab that can work as a long term partner instead of a mere vendor that supplies you with products that you need. By asking these questions, you’ll narrow down labs that suit your standard of quality and find the right one for your practice.

Vitality Technologies is a reliable, full-service, and nationwide dental laboratory with over 17 years of servicing dental clients. We specialize in dental implants, fixed prosthetics, and high-end removable dentures. Contact us today to find out how we can help your practice!  Call our office at (413) 273-1563 or schedule a free consultation online.