The dental industry is constantly evolving, with dental lab suppliers playing a crucial role in driving innovation and transforming patient care. As we look ahead to 2024, it’s clear that the top dental lab suppliers will be those that embrace cutting-edge technologies, prioritize education and support for dental labs, and focus on sustainable innovation. In this article, we’ll explore the evolving role of dental lab suppliers, highlight the top suppliers leading the way, and discuss how they are empowering labs and driving the future of dentistry.
The Evolving Role of Dental Lab Suppliers
Dental lab suppliers have come a long way from simply providing materials and equipment. Today, they are strategic partners, working closely with dental labs to drive innovation and improve patient outcomes. As the industry continues to evolve, the role of dental lab suppliers is becoming increasingly important.
Embracing Digital Dentistry
One of the key ways dental lab suppliers are driving innovation is by embracing digital dentistry. From intraoral scanners to 3D printers, digital technologies are transforming the way dental labs operate. Top suppliers like Dentsply Sirona and Ivoclar are at the forefront of this digital revolution, offering a wide range of digital solutions that streamline workflows, improve accuracy, and enhance patient care.
Providing Education and Support
In addition to providing cutting-edge products, top dental lab suppliers are also prioritizing education and support. They understand that the success of dental labs depends on the skills and knowledge of their technicians. That’s why suppliers like 3Shape and Zahn Dental offer extensive training programs, webinars, and online resources to help labs stay up-to-date with the latest techniques and technologies.
Focusing on Sustainable Innovation
As the world becomes increasingly focused on sustainability, dental lab suppliers are also stepping up to the plate. They are developing eco-friendly products, reducing waste, and implementing sustainable practices throughout their operations. For example, Kulzer has introduced a line of biodegradable impression materials, while Straumann has committed to using 100% renewable energy in its facilities by 2024.
Top Suppliers Leading the Way
Now that we’ve explored the evolving role of dental lab suppliers, let’s take a closer look at some of the top suppliers leading the way in 2024.
Dentsply Sirona
Dentsply Sirona is a global leader in dental solutions, offering a comprehensive range of products and technologies for dental labs. From CAD/CAM systems to 3D printers, Dentsply Sirona is at the forefront of digital dentistry. They also offer extensive education and support through their Dentsply Sirona Academy, which provides online courses, webinars, and hands-on training for dental professionals.
Key Products & Services:
- inLab CAD/CAM System
- Primescan Intraoral Scanner
- Multimat NTX & Multimat2 Sinter Furnaces
- Celtra Press & Celtra Duo Zirconia Materials
- On-demand webinars & online education through Dentsply Sirona Academy
Contact Information:
- Phone: 844-848-0137
- Email: customerservice@dentsplysirona.com
- Website: https://www.dentsplysirona.com/en-us/products/dental-lab.html
Ivoclar
Ivoclar is another top dental lab supplier, known for its innovative materials and technologies. They offer a wide range of high-quality ceramics, composites, and digital solutions for dental labs. Ivoclar is also committed to education and support, with their International Center for Dental Education (ICDE) offering a variety of courses and training programs.
Key Products & Services:
- IPS e.max & IPS Empress CAD Ceramics
- Programat Furnaces
- PrograMill One & PM7 Milling Machines
- 3Shape & exocad CAD/CAM Software
- ICDE Education Programs & Online Courses
Contact Information:
- Phone: 800-533-6825
- Email: info@ivoclarvivadent.com
- Website: https://www.ivoclarvivadent.com/en/dental-labs-and-dentists
3Shape
3Shape is a leading provider of 3D scanners and CAD/CAM software for dental labs. Their innovative solutions are designed to streamline workflows, improve accuracy, and enhance collaboration between labs and dentists. 3Shape also offers extensive education and support through their 3Shape Academy, which provides online courses, webinars, and in-person training.
Key Products & Services:
- E4 & E3 Lab Scanners
- Dental System CAD Software
- Implant Studio & Ortho System Software
- 3Shape Academy Online Courses & Webinars
Contact Information:
- Phone: 908-867-0144
- Email: customerservice.us@3shape.com
- Website: https://www.3shape.com/en/labs
Zahn Dental
Zahn Dental is a full-service supplier for dental labs, offering a comprehensive range of products and services. From digital dentistry solutions to traditional materials and equipment, Zahn Dental has everything labs need to succeed. They also offer education and support through their Zahn Education Center, which provides online courses, webinars, and hands-on training.
Key Products & Services:
- CAD/CAM Equipment & Materials
- Milling Machines & 3D Printers
- Furnaces & Casting Equipment
- Zirconia, Ceramics & Composites
- Zahn Education Center Courses & Webinars
Contact Information:
- Phone: 800-496-9500
- Email: zahndigital@henryschein.com
- Website: https://www.zahndental.com/en-us
Empowering Labs Through Education and Support
As mentioned earlier, education and support are critical components of the evolving role of dental lab suppliers. Top suppliers understand that empowering labs with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed is just as important as providing innovative products and technologies.
Online Learning Platforms
One way suppliers are empowering labs is through online learning platforms. For example, the Dentsply Sirona Academy offers a wide range of on-demand webinars and online courses covering topics like digital dentistry, implant solutions, and material science. Similarly, the ICDE from Ivoclar provides online courses and webinars on ceramic materials, digital workflows, and more.
Hands-On Training & Workshops
In addition to online learning, many suppliers also offer hands-on training and workshops. These in-person events provide labs with the opportunity to learn new techniques, try out the latest technologies, and network with other professionals. For example, 3Shape regularly hosts hands-on training sessions for their CAD/CAM software, while Zahn Dental offers workshops on topics like digital dentures and implant solutions.
Technical Support & Customer Service
Finally, top dental lab suppliers prioritize technical support and customer service to ensure labs have the help they need when they need it. Whether it’s troubleshooting equipment issues or answering questions about materials, suppliers like Dentsply Sirona, Ivoclar, 3Shape, and Zahn Dental have dedicated support teams available via phone, email, and online chat.
Driving Sustainable Innovation
As the dental industry continues to evolve, sustainability is becoming an increasingly important focus for dental lab suppliers. Top suppliers are developing eco-friendly products, reducing waste, and implementing sustainable practices throughout their operations.
Eco-Friendly Materials
One way suppliers are driving sustainable innovation is by developing eco-friendly materials. For example, Kulzer has introduced a line of biodegradable impression materials made from renewable resources. These materials offer the same high quality and precision as traditional impression materials, but with a reduced environmental impact.
Waste Reduction & Recycling
Suppliers are also focusing on waste reduction and recycling to minimize their environmental footprint. For example, Straumann has implemented a comprehensive recycling program for their manufacturing waste, while Dentsply Sirona has developed a closed-loop water system that reduces water consumption in their production facilities.
Renewable Energy & Carbon Neutrality
Finally, some suppliers are taking sustainability to the next level by committing to renewable energy and carbon neutrality. Straumann has pledged to use 100% renewable energy in its facilities by 2024, while Dentsply Sirona has set a goal to become carbon neutral by 2040.
The Future of Dental Lab Suppliers
As we look ahead to the future of dental lab suppliers, it’s clear that innovation, education, and sustainability will continue to be key drivers. Top suppliers will need to stay at the forefront of digital dentistry, providing labs with the latest technologies and solutions to streamline workflows and improve patient outcomes.
At the same time, suppliers will need to prioritize education and support to help labs navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of dentistry. Online learning platforms, hands-on training, and dedicated support teams will be essential for empowering labs with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed.
Finally, sustainability will become an increasingly important focus for dental lab suppliers in the years ahead. As the world becomes more environmentally conscious, suppliers will need to develop eco-friendly products, reduce waste, and implement sustainable practices throughout their operations.
Conclusion
Dental lab suppliers play a crucial role in driving innovation and transforming patient care. As we look ahead to 2024 and beyond, it’s clear that the top suppliers will be those that embrace digital dentistry, prioritize education and support, and focus on sustainable innovation.
From Dentsply Sirona and Ivoclar to 3Shape and Zahn Dental, the top suppliers highlighted in this article are leading the way in empowering labs and shaping the future of dentistry. By partnering with these innovative suppliers, dental labs can stay at the forefront of the industry and deliver the highest quality care to their patients.
FAQs
Suppliers like Pearson and Dentsply Sirona offer a comprehensive range, from basic dental instruments to advanced CAD/CAM and 3D printing technologies.
Assess the range of products, support services, technological advancements, and customer testimonials.
Yes, many leading suppliers offer bespoke solutions tailored to specific dental laboratory needs.
