High‑quality restorations depend on effective teamwork between clinicians and laboratory technicians. A qualitative study published in BMC Oral Health found that relationships between dental clinicians and lab technicians depend on teamwork dynamics and open communication. Participants emphasized the importance of training, collaborative learning and aligning expectations regarding cost, turnaround time and patient preferences. Organizational factors such as workload, workforce shortages and digital systems can affect this interrelationship.
Best Practices
- Share detailed case information: provide clear impressions or digital scans, shade selection, and photos.
- Establish communication channels: schedule regular check‑ins to discuss complex cases and set realistic timelines.
- Embrace technology: digital workflows facilitate collaboration by allowing real‑time sharing of scans and designs.
- Mutual education: invite technicians to chairside to understand clinical challenges; shadow at the lab to appreciate fabrication processes.
Outcome
By fostering collaboration and respect, dentists and laboratories can deliver precise, aesthetic restorations and improve patient satisfaction. Investing in the relationship yields long‑term benefits for both parties.
Sources
- BMC Oral Health study on dentist–laboratory relationships – bmcoralhealth.biomedcentral.com
