WHAT DENTISTS SHOULD KNOW ABOUT DENTAL LAB TURNAROUND TIMES

Understanding Dental Lab Turnaround Times

Timely dental restorations are essential for maintaining patient satisfaction and ensuring smooth clinic operations. However, managing expectations around dental lab turnaround times can be challenging. Here’s what dentists need to know about the factors influencing turnaround times and how to set the right expectations for their patients.
Dental labs operate within a structured workflow that includes case intake, digital or physical impressions, fabrication, quality control, and final delivery. The time required for a case depends on several factors:

• Case Complexity – Simple cases like single-unit crowns may take less time compared to full-mouth restorations or implant-supported prosthetics.
  
• Material Availability – Some materials require longer processing times due to curing, milling, or layering techniques.
  
• Customization & Aesthetics – Highly customized cases, such as those requiring intricate shade matching or special characterizations, may take additional days.
  
• Lab Workload & Capacity – A high influx of cases or peak seasons may affect standard turnaround times.
  
• Remakes & Adjustments – Cases that require modifications due to incorrect impressions or occlusion issues can extend delivery times.
  
  

How Dentists Can Improve Turnaround Times ​

While some delays are unavoidable, dentists can take steps to minimize turnaround time and ensure smoother case processing: 

1. Submit Accurate Impressions – High-quality digital or physical impressions reduce the need for remakes and adjustments. 
   

1. Provide Clear Prescriptions – Detailed instructions on material choice, shade selection, and special requirements help labs work efficiently. 
   

1. Plan Cases in Advance – Anticipating patient needs and scheduling cases accordingly prevents last-minute rushes. 
   

1. Communicate with the Lab – Establishing a strong relationship with the dental lab and maintaining open communication can help identify potential delays early. 
   

Leverage Digital Technology – Digital impressions and CAD/CAM technology often speed up case processing compared to traditional methods. ​

Setting Patient Expectations ​

Managing patient expectations is crucial to maintaining trust and satisfaction. Here’s how dentists can ensure patients understand the timeline: 

• Provide Estimated Delivery Dates – Clearly communicate expected turnaround times and account for potential delays. 
  

• Educate Patients on Lab Processes – Briefly explain why restorations take time to fabricate and the importance of quality control. 
  

• Offer Temporary Solutions – For longer cases, consider providing temporary restorations to keep patients comfortable. 
  

Stay Proactive with Follow-Ups – Regular updates reassure patients that their cases are progressing as planned. ​

Conclusion ​

Dental lab turnaround times are a critical component of practice efficiency and patient care. By understanding the factors that affect lab timelines and implementing proactive strategies, dentists can streamline their workflow and enhance patient satisfaction. Strong communication with the dental lab and clear expectations with patients will lead to better outcomes and a smoother experience for all involved. 

We pride ourselves on our quick turnaround times, precision, and commitment to excellence. Our lab operates six days a week to ensure that we meet your deadlines without compromising on quality.
Let's discuss how we can support your practice with our high-quality products. Contact us today to learn more or schedule a consultation!