The dental lab you choose directly affects your clinical outcomes, patient satisfaction, and practice efficiency. Whether you’re a new dentist or looking to switch lab partners, finding the right fit requires more than just comparing price lists.
At First Dental Studio, we work closely with dental clinics across Canada to support restorative success through quality, service, and collaboration. Here’s what to look for when evaluating a dental lab for your practice.
1. Quality of Restorations
Above all, your lab should consistently deliver high-quality restorations that require minimal adjustment and last long-term.
What to Check:
- Material options (e.g., zirconia, e.max, PMMA)
- Occlusion, fit, and esthetic finish
- Shade matching and characterization
- Sample case outcomes or images
- Quality control processes
We use only certified, premium materials and inspect every case for accuracy before it leaves our lab—because fewer chairside adjustments mean more time for your patients.
2. Digital Capabilities
Modern dentistry depends on digital integration. Your lab should support intraoral scans, accept digital files from major systems (e.g., 3Shape, DEXIS, iTero), and offer full CAD/CAM workflows.
Look For:
- Digital case submission platform
- Support for STL, PLY, OBJ files
- Feedback on scan quality
- In-house 3D printing and milling
First Dental Studio offers digital case support and real-time file reviews, so you can submit a scan with confidence and receive predictable results.
3. Consistency & Reliability
A good lab isn’t just good once—it’s reliable every time. Late or inconsistent deliveries can throw off your entire schedule and frustrate patients.
Ask About:
- Average turnaround times
- Remake policies
- Lab technician experience
- Lab ownership and leadership stability
At First Dental Studio, consistency is at the core of everything we do. Our team is experienced, detail-oriented, and fully accountable for every case we produce.
4. Communication & Support
Every dentist deserves a responsive lab partner—especially when handling complex implant or esthetic cases. Great communication prevents errors, builds trust, and keeps everything moving.
Key Signs of Good Lab Communication:
- Dedicated case manager or technician
- Easy access via phone, email, or portal
- Proactive updates if delays arise
- Willingness to review and troubleshoot case details
Our clients are assigned a dedicated contact who understands your preferences and provides direct access to our technicians—so your questions are answered fast.
5. Turnaround Time & Case Logistics
Timely delivery is critical to keep your workflow efficient and patients satisfied. Whether you’re across town or across the province, your lab must have a system in place for secure, dependable case handling.
What to Look For:
- Standard and rush turnaround options
- Local pickup and delivery (if applicable)
- Courier partnerships (e.g., Canada Post, Purolator, UPS)
- Online label generation and case tracking
We offer timely turnarounds on all restorations, with digital uploads and courier coordination available directly through our website.
6. Value Over Cost
Choosing the lowest-cost lab often leads to higher long-term costs—from extra chair time to remakes. Focus instead on overall value, which includes:
- Quality and durability of restorations
- Communication and case planning support
- Fewer remakes and reduced stress
- Time saved on every case
We keep pricing transparent and competitive—while delivering results that help you avoid costly rework.
7. Reputation and Relationships
Word of mouth still matters. Check reviews, testimonials, or ask peers about their experience. A great lab earns its reputation through trust, not ads.
How to Vet:
- Online reviews or peer recommendations
- Sample cases or clinical outcomes
- Tour the lab (virtually or in person, when possible)
- See how long they’ve worked with other dentists
We’re proud of the strong relationships we’ve built with Canadian dentists, many of whom have trusted us for years.
Ready to Evaluate Your Next Lab Partner?
Choosing a dental lab isn’t just about shipping cases—it’s about building a partnership that improves patient care. At First Dental Studio, we prioritize fit, function, and follow-through—so you can deliver excellent results, case after case.
