Dental laboratories assist in fabricating and customizing dental prosthetics and devices that improve a patient’s oral health. By collaborating with dental practitioners, laboratories confirm that the materials they supply are accurate and appropriate for the patient. Here are a few services laboratories provide:
1. Custom Dental Prosthetics
Dental laboratories construct custom restorations like crowns, bridges, veneers, and dentures. These devices are designed to fit the specific contours of a patient’s teeth and mouth to provide comfort, function, and aesthetics. Through impressions or digital scans, prosthetics are made to help restore and maintain oral health. Crowns are intended to restore the functionality and esthetics of compromised teeth. They mimic the look of natural teeth. Bridges replace missing teeth and are supported by adjacent healthy teeth or implants, enabling patients to bite and speak effectively. Dentures are made to fit the gum contours and provide stability and comfort.
Laboratories also custom-make veneers to improve the appearance of teeth. These thin shells conceal imperfections like discoloration, chips, or gaps. Labs verify that veneers are created in the right size, shape, and color of natural teeth. The outcome is an enhanced appearance of the patient’s teeth. Materials such as zirconia and flexible resins are used to construct these devices, making them durable and aesthetically appealing.
2. Orthodontic Appliances
Orthodontic appliances include retainers, aligners, and mouthguards. Dental laboratories manufacture them to meet various requirements. Retainers keep the teeth aligned after the orthodontic treatment, while clear aligners gradually move the teeth into the desired position. Labs design mouthguards to fit the teeth and gums of the patient and prevent clenching, grinding, or damage during sports and other physical activities. Laboratories use advanced materials such as thermoplastics to confirm that these appliances are comfortable and durable. This blend of customization and quality makes orthodontic devices a dependable tool for dental corrections and protection.
3. Teeth Whitening Trays
Cosmetic dental patients can obtain custom whitening trays from dental laboratories. Technicians make trays based on the impressions of a patient’s teeth to fit well and apply whitening gel evenly. Custom trays are long-lasting and can be used multiple times, which makes it possible for the dentist to adjust the whitening procedure to the patient’s needs.
4. Repairs and Adjustments
In the case of a cracked denture or a damaged crown, the technicians employ advanced equipment and materials to confirm that appliances are returned to their initial state. Resins are applied to fix cracks in dentures in a way that makes them as good as new in appearance and functionality. Other changes may also be necessary for items such as retainers or dentures that require occasional adjustments to fit properly and function effectively. A dental lab uses modern techniques to work on the appliances to make sure they are comfortable for the patient.
5. Implant Abutments
When a patient loses a permanent tooth, a dentist may choose to replace that tooth with a custom crown and abutment. The abutment connects the crown to the jaw through a metal screw. Dental labs will make custom abutments that are tailored to the patient’s jaw shape. This will help provide the most comfortable fit possible. They also offer these abutments in various materials, depending on the patient’s preferences and any allergies they may have.
Partner With a Dental Lab Today
Dental laboratories provide valuable services that help improve the quality of treatment for patients. They help make precise, high-quality dental products, from custom-made prosthetics to orthodontic appliances and whitening trays. Any dental practitioner wanting to expand their service range should engage a reliable dental laboratory. Start your search for a high-quality lab today.
