Pittman Dental Laboratory Blog

Periodontists understand the profound impact a healthy smile has on a patient's life. When gum disease leads to significant tooth loss, restoring function and aesthetics becomes a priority. Capture®, the innovative full-arch guided system from Pittman Dental Laboratory, empowers you to deliver life-changing smile restorations with exceptional efficiency and predictability.

Are you looking for high-end dental solutions that combine quality and aesthetics for your discerning patients? Look no further because PROLINE is here to exceed your and your patient's expectations. Patients today demand nothing but the best when it comes to their dental care, and we understand that completely. That's why we at Pittman Dental Lab have brought forth PROLINE, offering luxury dental lab quality.

Backed by over 40 years of restorative experience, Pittman Dental Lab ensures that each Proline restoration delivered is not just reliable but also stunningly beautiful. We know how crucial it is for discerning patients to feel confident with their smiles, and that's why we strive for excellence in every aspect of our work.

What sets PROLINE apart from the rest? It's our unwavering commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Every PROLINE case is handled by a dedicated team of technicians who are not only certified but also trained in leading industry programs such as Dawson, LVI, and CDT. This ensures that each case undergoes rigorous quality control measures at eight different checkpoints during production, guaranteeing results that go beyond satisfaction to pure delight.

Our crown and bridge solutions under PROLINE offer advanced features like extended 7-year warranty, premium materials, advanced shading, characterization, and custom gingival tinting. These features are designed to give your patients the confidence they deserve with a naturally looking smile that's second to none.

For those seeking highly esthetic restorations or advanced characterization, PROLINE crown and bridge are the answer. And it doesn't stop there. Our PROLINE dentures, handcrafted by expert technicians with decades of experience, boast features like extended 2-year warranty, Ivocap processing, Ivoclar Phonares 11 teeth, PROLINE custom setup, and custom gingival tinting.

At Pittman, we understand that dental care is not just about functionality; it's about enhancing lives through confident smiles. With our commitment to excellence, we are dedicated to making Proline dental solutions accessible to all practices. So why settle for anything less when you can have the best with PROLINE?

Dental implants are a gold standard for replacing missing teeth, offering patients a natural-looking and long-lasting solution. But if you're a general practitioner dentist, you might hesitate to offer implant procedures in-house. Perhaps you lack the perceived expertise or the additional equipment. However, with the right tools and training, you can easily expand your practice and revenue stream by providing both single and multiple implant placements for your patients.

Traditional dentures have served their purpose for many years, but dental technology is constantly evolving. Digital dentures are a prime example, offering a cutting-edge approach to denture creation that benefits both dentists and patients.

Dental implants are a popular and effective choice for replacing missing teeth. However, the success of dental implants depends on a number of factors, including the healing process of the tissues around the implant. Traditional healing abutments are often round or cylindrical in shape, which can lead to challenges in achieving optimal gum tissue contouring.

Pittman Account Managers often find themselves fielding one common question from dentists: "Which crown and bridge material is the best choice for my patient?" It's a crucial decision that can significantly impact the overall success of a dental restoration. To help demystify the world of crown and bridge material selection, let's explore the most popular options along with their respective strengths and weaknesses.

1.  Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM):
   - Strengths: PFM crowns combine the aesthetic appeal of porcelain with the durability of metal. They are suitable for both anterior and posterior restorations.
   - Weaknesses: The metal substructure may result in a thin layer of porcelain, making it prone to chipping over time. PFM crowns may also pose challenges in achieving a perfectly natural translucency.

2.  All-Ceramic:
   -  Strengths: All-ceramic crowns are renowned for their exceptional aesthetics, mimicking the natural appearance of teeth. They are a popular choice for anterior restorations.
   -  Weaknesses: While advancements have improved their strength, some types of all-ceramic crowns may still be more prone to fracture than their metal counterparts. They may not be ideal for posterior teeth with high biting forces.

3.  Zirconia:
   -  Strengths: Zirconia crowns strike a balance between strength and aesthetics. They are highly durable and can withstand considerable biting forces. Zirconia is an excellent choice for both anterior and posterior restorations.
   -  Weaknesses: Achieving optimal translucency can be challenging, and some patients may find the appearance less natural compared to other materials.

4.  Gold Alloy:
   -  Strengths: Gold alloy crowns are revered for their biocompatibility, durability, and minimal wear on opposing teeth. They are particularly suitable for posterior restorations.
   -  Weaknesses: The primary concern is the aesthetic aspect, as the gold color may not be visually appealing to all patients. Additionally, the cost may be a limiting factor for some.

5.  E-max (Lithium Disilicate):
   -  Strengths: E-max crowns boast excellent aesthetics and strength. They are versatile and suitable for a wide range of indications.
   -  Weaknesses: While strong, E-max crowns may not be as durable as zirconia in high-stress areas. Careful consideration is needed for posterior restorations in patients with heavy occlusal forces.

6.  Composite:
   -  Strengths: Composite crowns offer a cost-effective solution with good aesthetics. They are easy to adjust and repair.
   -  Weaknesses: Composite may not match the durability of other materials, and staining or wear over time can be concerns. They are often used as temporary solutions or for patients with budget constraints.

Pittman Dental Laboratory provides access to all of these crown and bridge materials. The Pittman Account Managers will suggest a crown and bridge material depending on various factors, including the patient's oral health, aesthetic preferences, and budget. Collaborating closely with your Pittman Account Manager, considering the specific needs of each case, will ensure the best possible outcome for your patients. Remember, no one-size-fits-all solution exists, but with informed decision-making, both you and your patients can confidently navigate the diverse landscape of crown and bridge material options with Pittman Dental Laboratory. For more information about crown and bridge Indications and Contraindications, download our guide, "Crown and Bridge Highly Aesthetic and Precise".

In the ever-evolving landscape of dentistry, traditional dental impressions have long been a cornerstone of the restoration process. However, both dentists and Pittman Dental Laboratory technicians have faced numerous challenges with this conventional approach. This blog explores the problems associated with traditional impressions and delves into the transformative potential of digital impressions in overcoming these issues.

Challenges with Traditional Impressions

1.  Inaccuracy and Marginal Fit:
   Traditional impressions are prone to inaccuracies, affecting the marginal fit of restorations. Studies have shown that a significant percentage of restoration remakes can be attributed to discrepancies in the impressions taken at the dentist's office.

2.  Patient Discomfort:
   Patients often find the process of traditional impressions uncomfortable and anxiety-inducing. The putty-like material used can trigger a gag reflex, leading to incomplete or distorted impressions, further complicating the restoration process.

3.  Shipping and Turnaround Time:
   Sending physical impressions from the dentist's office to the Pittman can be time-consuming. The transit time may contribute to delays in the fabrication of restorations, impacting patient satisfaction and treatment timelines.

Statistics on Traditional Impression Restoration Remakes

Research indicates that a substantial proportion of restoration remakes can be attributed to issues at both the dentist's and the lab's end. According to a comprehensive study, approximately 60% of remakes are caused by errors in the dental office, such as inaccurate impressions and inadequate communication with your designated Pittman Account Manager.  To ensure accurate interpretation of traditional impressions, Pittman Account Managers are readily available to review and discuss cases with you, working towards a successful outcome. They bring their expertise and collaborative approach to ensure the best possible results for your patients.

The Rise of Digital Impressions

As technology continues to advance, digital impressions have emerged as a game-changer in the field of dentistry. The adoption of intraoral scanners and CAD/CAM systems has been steadily increasing, offering a more efficient and accurate alternative to traditional impressions.

Benefits of Digital Impressions:

1.  Precision and Accuracy:
   Digital impressions provide a higher degree of precision, reducing the likelihood of inaccuracies in the restoration process. This not only improves the fit of restorations but also minimizes the need for remakes.

2.  Patient Comfort:
   Intraoral scanners eliminate the need for messy impression materials, making the process more comfortable for patients. The digital nature of the procedure also allows for quick and seamless capturing of impressions.

3.  Streamlined Communication:
   Digital impressions facilitate instant communication between dentists and Pittman. This real-time collaboration minimizes errors and ensures that the necessary adjustments can be made promptly, reducing the chances of remakes.

The Shift Towards Digital Impressions

Recent statistics highlight a significant shift from traditional to digital impressions in the dental industry. A survey conducted among dental professionals revealed that over 70% have either incorporated or are considering integrating digital impression systems into their practices. This shift is not only driven by the desire for improved accuracy but also by the potential to enhance overall efficiency and patient satisfaction. Pittman Dental Laboratory has several scanner placement programs available for dental practices. Contact your personal Territory Manager for more information about these partnership programs.

The challenges associated with traditional dental impressions are driving the dental industry towards a digital revolution. The adoption of digital impressions is transforming the way dentists and Pittman operate, offering a more accurate, efficient, and patient-friendly approach to the restoration process. As technology continues to advance, the era of digital impressions promises to redefine the standards of precision and excellence in modern dentistry.

Dental implant procedures have undergone significant advancements in recent years, offering both dentists and patients innovative options for tooth replacement. Two primary approaches have emerged in the world of implantology: guided dental implant systems and freehand dental implants.  At Pittman Dental Laboratory, we have witnessed the evolution of these techniques, each presenting its unique set of advantages and challenges.

Guided Dental Implant Systems:

Guided dental implant systems have gained popularity for their precision and predictability. This method involves the use of 3D imaging technology to create a detailed digital map of the patient's oral anatomy. Through computer-guided planning, the dentist can precisely determine the ideal implant placement and angulation, minimizing the margin for error.

Positive Aspects:

1. Enhanced Precision: One of the key advantages of guided systems is the high level of accuracy they provide. Dentists can achieve precise implant placement, reducing the risk of damage to surrounding structures.

2. Shorter Procedure Time: With a pre-determined surgical plan, the actual implant placement procedure tends to be quicker, resulting in reduced chair time for the patient and less discomfort.

3. Predictable Outcomes: Guided implant systems allow for a more predictable outcome, improving the long-term success of the implant. This is particularly beneficial for complex cases or patients with compromised bone density.

Negative Aspects:

1.  Learning Curve: Dentists need a system to follow to become proficient in using guided systems.  At Pittman Dental Laboratory, our implant team guides the Dentist from beginning to end with online case reviews, onsite facial analysis,  drill reports, implant reports and chairside assistance if needed. Dentists can also start with one or two implants with our Focal Point® system before going on to Capture® our all on X guided system.

Freehand Dental Implants:

Freehand dental implant procedures rely on the dentist's experience, skill, and tactile feedback during surgery. This traditional approach allows for greater flexibility and adaptability during the implant placement process.

Positive Aspects:

1.  Cost-Effective:  Freehand dental implant procedures generally require less investment in technology and training. This makes them a more accessible option for dental practices with budget constraints.

2. Experience-Dependent: Dentists with extensive experience in implantology may find the freehand approach more intuitive. The tactile feedback during surgery allows for on-the-spot adjustments based on the patient's unique anatomy.

Negative Aspects:

1. Limited Precision: The main drawback of freehand implant placement is the potential for less precise outcomes compared to guided systems. This can lead to suboptimal aesthetic results and increased risk of complications.

2. Extended Procedure Time: Without the aid of computer-guided planning, the dentist may spend more time during the surgery assessing and adjusting, potentially leading to longer procedure times and increased patient discomfort.

Conclusion:

Choosing between guided and freehand dental implant procedures involves weighing the pros and cons based on individual patient cases, practitioner expertise, and the financial considerations of the dental practice. While guided systems offer unparalleled precision, freehand techniques provide a more cost-effective and experience-dependent alternative. Ultimately, the decision rests on the dentist's comfort level, training, and commitment to delivering the best possible outcomes for their patients.

As we step into the promising realm of 2024, the field of dentistry is evolving at an unprecedented pace, driven by technological advancements and a growing focus on patient-centric care. Let's delve into the top trends shaping the future of dental practices.

1. Tele-Dentistry Revolution:
Tele-dentistry is no longer a futuristic concept; it's the present and the future. With the integration of advanced communication technologies, patients can now consult with their dentists remotely. From virtual check-ups to video consultations, tele-dentistry enhances accessibility and convenience, fostering a more patient-friendly approach to dental care.

2.  Artificial Intelligence in Diagnosis:
AI is making waves in dentistry by revolutionizing diagnostic processes. Machine learning algorithms analyze radiographs and other imaging data, aiding in the early detection of dental issues. This not only improves diagnostic accuracy but also allows for more personalized treatment plans, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes.

3.  3D Printing for Dental Prosthetics:
The era of traditional dental prosthetics is gradually giving way to 3D printing technology. From crowns and bridges to dentures, 3D printing enables the creation of precise, customized dental prosthetics. This not only reduces production time but also enhances the fit and comfort for patients, marking a significant leap in the world of dental restoration.

4.  Regenerative Dentistry Breakthroughs:
Advancements in regenerative dentistry are opening new avenues for treating dental problems. Stem cell research and tissue engineering are at the forefront, paving the way for regenerating damaged tissues, such as gums and teeth. This has the potential to transform how we approach dental treatments, moving towards more natural and sustainable solutions.

5.  Virtual Reality in Patient Education:
Patient education is taking a leap into virtual reality (VR). Dentists are leveraging VR technology to create immersive experiences that educate patients about procedures, treatments, and overall oral health. This interactive approach enhances patient understanding and engagement, demystifying dental care and reducing anxiety associated with visits to the dentist.

In conclusion, 2024 is a landmark year for dentistry, characterized by innovation and a commitment to enhancing patient experiences. Pittman Dental Laboratory and Surgical Solutions is embracing these innovations and investing in the technology skilled technicians that will enhance our products and services.  As these trends continue to shape the landscape of dental practices, both professionals and patients alike can look forward to a future where technology and compassion converge to redefine oral healthcare.

In the dynamic world of dentistry, seamless communication between dental practitioners and dental laboratories is essential for delivering optimal patient care. The linchpin in this collaborative relationship is the account manager, a dedicated professional who serves as a bridge between the dental practice and the laboratory. At Pittman Dental Laboratory, we understand this, so let's delve into five crucial steps that underscore the importance of having an account manager for dental practitioners when submitting cases to a dental laboratory.

1. Streamlined Communication:
A Pittman account manager acts as a central point of contact, ensuring clear and efficient communication between the dental practitioner and the dental laboratory. By having a designated liaison, practitioners can easily convey their specific requirements, discuss case details, and address any concerns. This streamlined communication eliminates potential misunderstandings, reducing the likelihood of errors and enhancing overall efficiency.

2. Tailored Consultation:
With a Pittman account manager in place, dental practitioners gain access to personalized consultation services. These professionals possess in-depth knowledge of dental materials, technologies, and processes. They can provide valuable insights, helping practitioners make informed decisions about material selection, case planning, and treatment options. This tailored guidance contributes to the overall success of dental cases.

3. Expedited Case Management:
Time is of the essence in dentistry, and a Pittman account manager plays a pivotal role in expediting case management. By overseeing the entire process from case submission to delivery, they ensure that cases progress smoothly through each stage. This proactive approach minimizes delays, allowing practitioners to focus on patient care without being burdened by logistical challenges.

4. Quality Assurance:
Pittman account managers serve as quality assurance advocates, ensuring that each dental case meets the highest standards. They collaborate closely with the dental laboratory team to monitor the progress of cases, conduct quality checks, and address any issues that may arise. This commitment to quality enhances the reliability of the laboratory's services and fosters a sense of trust between practitioners and the laboratory.