How to choose your dental prosthesis laboratory?

Introduction

Choosing a dental laboratory is an important decision for all oral health professionals: it is a key partner in their daily practice.

The market for dental prostheses and implants in France has been experiencing sustained growth in recent years. This expansion is mainly due to the aging of the population and to an increased demand for dental aesthetics. The implementation of the “100% Health” system also played a role in reducing the burden on patients, thus facilitating access to prosthetic care.

This growth is accompanied by an increase in the number of dental prosthesis laboratories, with around 3,000 businesses, ranging from craft laboratories to subsidiaries of importers. This diversity leads to differences in terms of quality, deadlines and product traceability.

In this constantly evolving sector, understanding how to choose your dental prosthesis laboratory is essential to ensure quality care and meet the growing expectations of patients; selection criteria are not only limited to reputation or competitive prices. It is also important to consider technological innovation, the responsiveness of customer service, the supply chain, and the ability to adapt to the specific needs of practitioners and patients.

This comprehensive guide is there to support dentists and dental centers in this strategic decision by providing them with clear and objective information.

The objective? Allow them to choose the best dental prosthesis laboratory.

What is a dental prosthesis laboratory?

A dental prosthesis laboratory is a company that specializes in the design, manufacture and repair of custom dental appliances. These devices are made from dental impressions and prescriptions provided by dental surgeons, orthodontists or stomatologists.

Dental technicians and technicians use traditional and digital techniques to create dental prostheses adapted to each patient.

It's not just a production center. The laboratory is the true extension of the dental office. Even if, in the majority of cases, the laboratory is not in direct contact with the patient, its role has a direct impact on his comfort and satisfaction.

Good coordination with the practitioner makes it possible to optimize:

The exposure time in the mouth thanks to precise adjustments.
The comfort and functionality of the prosthesis.
Aesthetics, a key element in patient satisfaction.

They generally work with: dental surgeons, orthodontists, dental clinics, dental offices, hospitals and health centers.

What are the main missions of a dental laboratory?

A dental prosthesis laboratory transforms clinical prescriptions into tailor-made solutions through a rigorous process that combines expertise and cutting-edge technologies.

From the analysis of the practitioner's indications to numerical modeling by CAD, each step aims at precision. Manufacturing, combining craftsmanship and 3D printing, results in prostheses that are carefully adjusted and finished for an optimal aesthetic result. Finally, the laboratory also ensures the maintenance and repair of existing devices, guaranteeing their durability.

1. Design and manufacture of fixed prostheses

Crowns, bridges, dental veneers, inlays/onlays : made to measure from fingerprints or digital files.
Examples of techniques used :
- Computer-aided design (CAD) with software like Exocad or 3Shape Dental System.
- Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) via 5-axis milling machines such as those offered by Roland DGShape or VHF.
- Use of high-end materials: multi-layered zirconia (for example Katana by Kuraray Noritake), lithium disilicate (IPS e.max by Ivoclar Vivadent).

2. Design of removable prostheses

Complete and partial prostheses: dentures, stellite, resin
Examples of modern solutions :
- 3D printing of prosthesis bases with biocompatible resins such as NextDent 3D+ Denture.
- Metal structures made by selective laser sintering (SLM).

3. Manufacture of orthodontic appliances

Transparent gutters (invisible aligners type) :
- Modeled by CAD and then thermoformed on 3D printed models.
- Technologies used: intraoral scanners type Medit i700 or 3Shape TRIOS, combined with Formlabs or Asiga 3D printers.
Interceptive and restraint devices :
- Palatine plates, functional devices made to measure.

4. Repair and adjustment of existing prostheses

Fast repair broken or worn prostheses.
Adding items (hooks, teeth) on removable prostheses.
Readjustment bases or occlusions to extend the life of the devices.

5. Intensive use of digital technologies

Since 2020 and even more so in 2025, most modern laboratories have switched to a 100% digital approach:

Physical model scanning with high-end desktop scanners (ex: 3Shape E4).
Digital planning of implant cases thanks to software like Implant Studio or BlueSky Plan.
Digital manufacturing surgical guides, temporary and permanent prostheses.
Digital traceability via dedicated software for complete monitoring of materials and the manufacturing process, required in particular by ISO 13485 standards.

Why choose the right dental prosthesis laboratory in 2025?

Choosing your dental laboratory is a strategic decision that has a direct impact on the quality of your services and the satisfaction of your patients. A reliable laboratory guarantees:

Clinical quality : perfectly adjusted prostheses that reduce retouching and promote an optimal patient experience.
Operational efficiency : strict compliance with deadlines to ensure a smooth flow of care. Technology partners like H32 Dental, specialized in digital integration and logistics optimization, bring real added value here.
Improving the patient experience : aesthetic, functional and comfortable devices that reinforce patient confidence.
Professional reputation : offering premium solutions reinforces the image and credibility of your firm.

Conversely, a poor laboratory choice can lead to delays, non-conformities and dissatisfaction. This is why, in 2025, it is essential to surround yourself with partners who can support practitioners with modern, flexible and reliable solutions.

H32 Dental, with its global and digital approach, is one of the references for meeting these challenges.

The criteria for choosing a dental prosthesis laboratory in 2025

Here are the essential aspects to consider before engaging with a prosthetic laboratory:

1. Material quality and certifications

CE and ISO certified materials (zirconia, ceramic, resin), guaranteeing their biocompatibility and compliance with European health standards. These certifications offer additional assurance as to the safety and durability of the prostheses delivered.
Full traceability of the materials used, essential to meet current regulatory requirements and ensure a high level of transparency in the event of a check or a patient request.

2. Technological skills

State-of-the-art equipment, including digital scanners, CAD/CAM systems (Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing) and 3D printers for maximum precision in the manufacture of prostheses.
Advanced planning software, allowing close collaboration between the laboratory and the practitioner for tailor-made results adapted to the specific needs of patients.

3. Controlled deadlines

Respect of deadlines : make sure that the laboratory is able to deliver your orders on time, taking into account your professional constraints.
Flexibility for emergencies : choose a partner that can respond quickly to your urgent needs, such as rapid repairs or manufacturing for patients requiring immediate care.

4. Customer service and communication

Fluid exchanges : a good laboratory must offer clear, fast and effective communication, with a dedicated contact person to follow up on your orders.
Technical support : for complex clinical cases, a competent laboratory must be able to support you with technical advice and adapted solutions.
Availability : the reactivity and proximity (physical or digital) of the laboratory are crucial elements for establishing a lasting relationship of trust.

5. Price and value for money

Compare rates : analyze the prices offered according to the services offered (quality of materials, speed of execution, level of service). A higher initial cost can be offset by better prosthesis quality and durability.
Cost transparency : a reliable laboratory must clearly detail its rates and exclude any hidden costs, so that you can anticipate your expenses.

6. Reputation and customer reviews

Opinion of colleagues : ask for the opinions of other practitioners who work with the laboratory to assess its reliability, product quality and overall satisfaction.
Experience and expertise : choose a laboratory with solid experience and a good reputation on the market, thus guaranteeing professionalism and the consistency of services.

FAQ: Your frequently asked questions about dental laboratories

1. What is the cost of dentures?

The cost of a dental prosthesis varies according to several factors, including the materials used (ceramic, resin, etc.) and the type of prosthesis (crown, bridge, complete prosthesis). For example, a crown generally costs between €150 and €500, but more complex or implant-based prostheses can cost several hundred euros more. Do not hesitate to ask your dentist for a detailed quote to better understand the costs.

2. Why choose a French dental laboratory?

Opting for a French laboratory means prioritizing quality and local know-how. In addition to guaranteeing high manufacturing standards, you benefit from a proximity that is valuable in case of need, such as to make quick adjustments or respond to emergencies. In addition, it promotes better communication between the dentist and the laboratory, which can have a direct impact on the precision and comfort of your prostheses.

3. What are the deadlines for dental prostheses?

Manufacturing times vary depending on the complexity of the prosthesis and the workload of the laboratory. On average, it takes between 3 and 10 working days. Some laboratories offer express deadlines for urgent cases, but this may result in additional costs. It is important to discuss deadlines with your dentist to schedule appointments accordingly.

To conclude on the choice of your dental prosthesis laboratory in 2025

Choosing your dental prosthesis laboratory is a strategic commitment. Innovation, responsiveness and quality are essential criteria in 2025.

H32 Dental, thanks to its business expertise and cutting-edge digital solutions, is positioned as an ideal partner for demanding practitioners. Combining a close relationship and a high level of technical expertise, H32 supports you in optimizing each stage of your prosthetic chain.

To go further and find out how H32 Dental can become your trusted partner, contact us now.