An Interview With Alex Thomas
Inside Dental Technology delivers updates on digital workflows, materials, lab techniques, and innovation in dental technology through expert articles and videos.
October 1, 2014
Volume 5, Issue 10, October 2014
Page(s): p. 88
Alex Thomas (AT): One of the latest developments is the rapid increase in the number of laboratories expanding their product lines and producing more restorations in-house due to advances in CAD/CAM technology and the affordability of these systems. While this is great for our industry, it is also significantly increasing the level of competition. Other than this, the same realities that have threatened laboratories in the past are still present and will continue to pressure labs. Dentists are purchasing intraoral and model scanners, and even milling equipment, as they continue to move toward digital dentistry. Pricing (laboratory-to-laboratory and laboratory-to-doctor) is also competitive as ever.
AT: Just that, a partner. Service and support may be the most important determinant to choosing a system. Choose a partner that uses the same equipment and products for its own production. Once a laboratory receives the equipment, there will be a learning curve. Having the ability to send more complex products and cases to the company you purchased your equipment from is a huge advantage. The support team and technicians will be able to explain the process to broaden your knowledge of your investment, allowing you to take care of the same case on your own the next time. These companies are dedicated to the equipment they offer and are consistently improving through research and development.
AT: With our advanced equipment and technical staff, we are able to produce more complex cases in-house. We’re also focused on implant abutments, bars, and full-arch screw-retained bridges. The addition of SLM services has proved to be another cost-effective, quality product line as well.
AT: At Dental Arts Laboratories and DT Technologies, we work to stay at the forefront of dental technology. We’ve developed multiple partnerships that allow us to use open, versatile CAD/CAM equipment in our facilities and to offer this same equipment to other laboratories. Having a proven business model with this equipment, we’ve been able to help other laboratories make a successful transition. Finally, throughout the company, we are completely dedicated to continuing education, marketing programs, and research and development.
AT: I think we can expect a significant increase in dental practices with intraoral scanners due to improvements in the technology and an overall availability and affordability. I also believe we can look forward to a collaborative work environment between laboratories and dentists, both sides coming together to deliver advanced solutions for patient treatment.
