Episode 03
We put Neil on the spot answering general queries direct from CosTech clients along with a couple submitted by our team. Topics are varied covering AI use in lab, product guarantees, demonstration models and much more. See below for a quick summary of the questions and answers given.
No, we’re comfortable working from all scan file types and intraoral scanners. As far as we’re aware, all modern intraoral scanners can produce viable impressions.
We already implement AI designers in lab for basic case setup tasks e.g. margin recognition, data stitching and model production ready for our technicians to take over. We have no interest in using AI to replace technicians, as far as we’re concerned it’s a useful tool that we can use to enhance and assist.
In the interest of data protection, we do not use any AI processing where identifiable patient information is involved.
a) How can clinicians ensure accuracy during shade takes?
Email us a picture of the patient’s teeth with the relevant shade tab(s) in view for colour calibration, ideally in natural light. If possible, send multiple pictures taken under a few different light sources (natural light, surgery lighting, etc). If prescribing e.max/LiSi, please send include a stump or Natural Die shade so the technician can decide how best to mask any discolouration. Emails can be sent to [email protected].
b) Can we shade match gold?
We cannot shade match gold restorations. However, if a previous metal restoration was made by us, we can refer to our records for the specific alloy and use it again if still available.
c) Why did CosTech discontinue 2% and 86% gold?
Precious alloys are purchased in bulk in the form of ingots and typically only a small portion of each ingot is used per case. For specialist gold types that means we have to consider long-term storage for small but very expensive ingots which can become onerous.
E.max is a brand of lithium disilicate manufactured by Ivoclar, noted for its excellent shade consistency and ability to achieve given a shade despite underlying discolouration. For general use we would recommend LiSi but where there is underlying discolouration we suggest using E.max instead.
We are unlikely to add many more ex-display or cancelled case models any time soon but will continue to offer a limited range of stock models. Custom demo models can be produced to order at a 25% discount from our price list.
With removables there are too many variables and risk factors for us to account for in lab. In addition to the usual talking and chewing, we would also have to consider patient removal/insertion habits, changes in soft tissue over time and external influences (dropped dentures, wayward pets, etc…).
We continue to offer Crown & Bridge guarantees of 1-year for Economy/NHS and a 5-year worldwide guarantee on Premium/Private cases
a) What’s the full arch price for smile design?
Smile design is £193 per 6-6 arch (£28 for the first tooth and £15 for each tooth thereafter).
b) With smile design can we request specific features or multiple designs to present the patient with some options?
Yes, we can provide multiple designs on request, in which case we would recommend that they’re provided as web-view design links rather than 3D printed models to cut out unnecessary costs.
a) What impressions are needed for anti-snoring appliances?
For anti-snoring devices we require full upper and lower alginate impressions along with a bite registration in a non-warping material (i.e. not wax). The bite registration should be taken with the lower jaw slightly protruded from its natural position while remaining comfortable for the wearer.
b) What’s the fit/removal process for anti-snoring appliances?
To insert the appliance the wearer should place it on their teeth and gently press into place on each side, starting at the rear and working forward. The wearer should not bite down to push the device into place.
To remove the appliance the wearer should push it off the teeth on both sides, starting at the rear and working forwards. The wearer should refrain from pulling on the connectors.
Yes, we still offer composite onlays, they are charged at £33/unit. Popular alternatives are Zirconia & G-Cam.
Yes, these are charged at £29 each. Please specify in advance the type/size of holes required as this can vary considerably by method, there is no charge for adding the holes.
a) Do CosTech accept digital scans for implant cases?
Yes, we do accept digital scans for implant cases. Please ensure all relevant information is provided, i.e. platform size, brand, sub-brand, etc…
b) Does CosTech do advanced implant cases (types mentioned include all-on 4, all-on 6, Paulo Malo design, locater dentures, bar dentures, etc…
Yes, Our implant & Premium+ prosthetic teams are more than comfortable taking on such cases. Due to the levels of customisation involved, specific prices are available on application.
No. The new premises is close to our current site and we’re planning a staged move to take place ideally over a bank holiday weekend so there should be no impact on cases in progress. We collect postal cases directly from the depot and our local driver collection routes will not be affected so there should be no concerns regarding in transit.
Take a look at our recent blog post covering Lab Q&A:
Working With A Lab Made Easy
Go to https://us.3shapecommunicate.com
Select “CONNECTIONS”
Request a connection with CosTech Dental Lab
Email [email protected] to let us know you have requested a connection
After your connection is approved, select CosTech Dental Lab when sending files
Dentist/clinician has to get in touch with Straumann directly and they will add our lab within their scanner
Visit ‘Carestream Connect’ on your scanner
Search for CosTech Dental Lab
Add CosTech Dental Lab
Select CosTech Dental Lab when submitting scans or raw .STL files
Choose ‘My Favourite Recipients’ from the left hand menu
Search for ‘CosTech Dental Lab’ and click add
Visit ‘Dexis IS connect’ on your scanner Search for CosTech Dental Lab Add CosTech Dental Lab Select CosTech Dental Lab when submitting scans or raw .STL files
Please contact your iTero representative and request a link to CosTech Dental Lab.
Select “Find a Laboratory” on your scanner
Connect to CosTech Dental Lab
We will receive your file directly from your scanner and book your case in
_
If you have any technical problems sending your file email us at [email protected]
Log into www.meditlink.com with the administrator account
Go to ‘Partners on the left pane’
Search for ‘CosTech Dental Lab’ and click the ‘Request Partnership’ button
You’ll see that the lab has been added to the ‘My Partner List’
Dentist can add us via NeoConnect online portal
Dentist can add us via Shining 3D online portal within the “Connection” tab
