Material Savings Vs. Client Retention

Lesser Materials Cost More Than You Think

Brian Lindke

As a 40-year veteran in the dental lab industry and owner of both VIVIDX LAB and SYNrG LAB, I've seen many labs make the same mistake. They get too busy, neglect their business plan, and when times get tough, they turn to cost-cutting measures to regain profitability. While the temptation is understandable, I'd like to propose a different approach-one that involves making smarter decisions, increasing efficiency, and embracing innovation.

Labs face a critical decision, save a few dollars by choosing cheaper materials or invest in reputable, higher-quality ones that can lead to greater profits. Those "cheaper" materials often come with hidden costs-more fractures, corrective work, unpredictable results, and ultimately, failing to meet the client's esthetic expectations. It's always best to determine the quality of work you want to produce first, then select your materials. Cost-based choices can and will compromise your quality, costing far more in the long run.

In today's evolving industry, efficiency is crucial. Knowing many of my clients already use KATANA zirconia blocks from Kuraray Noritake Dental, I align my workflow with theirs. By embracing the KATANA brand, I'm delivering restorations that match their esthetic expectations. Having used KATANA YML for some time now, I've found it to be highly efficient for a wide range of indications-from single crowns to full-arch zirconia hybrid cases. This not only reduces my inventory but also complements my clients' chairside offerings.

When in doubt about material selection, stick with original innovators like KATANA, one of the early pioneers in multilayered zirconia. Experience matters. The longer a company has been in the game, the more credible and reliable they become. KATANA's evolution from a single multilayered disc to a wide range of offerings has solidified its reputation as a trusted partner in the industry.

Labs need to reflect on their business plans, determine what their clients expect, and maintain that quality without compromising on materials. Pennies saved today can lead to dollars lost tomorrow. Evolve with your clients and align with their workflow. Stick with trusted brands for a guaranteed win. Finally, consider investing in innovators within the industry. Short-term cost savings aren't worth losing long-term client relationships. You can afford to invest in quality; it's the clients you can't afford to lose.

BRIAN LINDKE, CDT
Owner of VIVIDX LAB, Atlanta, GA and SYNrG LAB, Buford, GA

Key Takeaways

› All-in-one disc design offers a perfect balance between strength and translucency

› Exceptional design flexibility for long-span full-arch monolithic bridges and esthetic anterior crown restorations

› Characterized by a unique combination of raw materials and proprietary zirconia powders

Manufacturer Information
Kuraray Noritake Dental Inc.
Kuraraynoritake.com

Product Questions:
Lab.Support@kuraray.com
800-879-1676

Disclaimer: The statements and opinions contained in the preceding material are not of the editors, publisher, or the Editorial Board of Inside Dental Technology.