There are lots of good dental laboratories in the UK. Many businesses are recognised by their clients for delivering a high standard of products in a timely manner. But what transforms a good lab into a great one? Two core elements that contribute to a lab’s reputation are the breadth and efficiency of the service it provides, as well as the quality, reliability, and safety of its products. By reviewing each one and making even small improvements where possible, you can transform your business and see it really thrive.
Service with a smile
Modern clinicians are often looking for more than just a transaction from their dental laboratory. To make the most of this and provide a service they will remember for all the right reasons, labs should look to build a long-term working relationship with them. This starts with taking the time to really get to know them, to understand their needs and ambitions, and to determine the value that your business can offer them. Opportunities to go the extra mile should be seized and services should be tailored to meet their needs specifically.
Much of this will rely on open and honest communication. Every case should be approached as a conversation, where both dentist and technician share their expertise to propose the most effective solutions for every individual patient. Treatment can be planned and executed in partnership, putting collaboration at the forefront for the benefit of the patient. Establish what technologies your dentists are using to ensure that your software can integrate seamlessly. Consider also using simple tools like WhatsApp to clarify details and seek further information, ensuring you have the instructions needed to create exceptional prosthetics and highly accurate devices. A dependable courier will be important for the consistent and timely delivery of products back to practices.
Beyond your cases, relationships with clinicians can be strengthened further by sharing best practice and offering insights into technical advancements. If you can help your partner dentists to take more accurate impressions or to plan for more predictable implant prosthetics, for instance, they will appreciate the support, and your work will only be improved in tandem.
Quality as standard
For success, this exceptional customer service and partnership building must be accompanied by high quality standards across all products and devices fabricated. Consistency, accuracy, precision, and aesthetics should all be optimised to ensure client expectations are met and exceeded.
This requires investment in the business – in the team, the technology, and the workflow. Only with adequate knowledge and experience, the right tools, and effective processes can technicians work to the best of their abilities and deliver excellent solutions to clients. Internal CPD days, external courses, and everything in between are available to advance individuals’ skills and boost their confidence with new materials and techniques. You may also consider a day out by taking the team to an industry conference or similar, encouraging connection between team members and beyond for even greater benefits, including opportunities to learn hands on under the guidance of leading professionals.
These are also great platforms for researching new materials and technologies, and for understanding how new equipment could impact your workflow. Booking demonstrations or engaging with a trial period may prove useful for effective decision-making too, especially preceding a significant investment.
Safety and efficiency
The successful implementation of modern technology is also integral for productivity, which will positively impact turnaround times and further improve the client experience. Competent and confident team members will have a similar effect on the speed of product manufacture. However, it is crucial that the emphasis is on efficiency and that no corners are cut in the pursuit of time-saving above all else.
Even simple additions to the everyday workflow can help to optimise safety and efficiency in all that you do. For example, the PumiceSafe from Kemdent is supplied ready-to-use for soaking used lathe brushes directly in, offering algaecide and fungicidal properties for infection control at its best prior to denture polishing. PlasterSafe solvent offers a similarly easy solution for the reliable removal of dental plaster and stone from dentures, facilitating a quick workflow with no compromises.
Built to thrive
Building a great dental laboratory does not always require substantial changes – often it is simply about paying attention to the details and making small tweaks that elevate the service and products you provide. By strengthen relationships with dentists, ensuring open communication, investing in technology and materials, and maintaining the safety and efficiency of your processes, you too can watch your lab excel.
For more information about the leading solutions available from Kemdent, please visit www.kemdent.co.uk or call 01793 770 256
Author: Alistair Mayoh – Marketing Director Kemdent
