Does CosTech have a preferred scanner/scan file type?
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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.
To what extent is CosTech using AI-assistance for case design and what’s CosTech’s general stance on AI use in the lab?
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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.
Shade Taking
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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 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.
How does CosTech’s LiSi (lithium disilicate) differ from e.max?
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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 recommend LiSi, but where there is underlying discolouration we suggest using E.max instead.
Will you be adding more patient demonstration models to the shop page?
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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.
Why do CosTech not offer a guarantee on removables?
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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.
Smile Design
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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) Can we request specific features or multiple designs?
Yes, we can provide multiple designs on request. We recommend web-view design links rather than 3D printed models to cut unnecessary costs.
Anti-Snoring Appliances
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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.
Do CosTech still offer composite onlays/overlays?
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Yes, we still offer composite onlays, they are charged at £33/unit. Popular alternatives are Zirconia & G-Cam.
Does CosTech produce clear stents for the injection-moulding composite bonding technique?
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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.
Digital Implant Cases
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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.
Will there be any disruption to CosTech’s services or anticipated lab closure dates due to the change of premises?
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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.
