In-House Lab Business Model On the Rise

Industry pundits have long predicted growth in the number of in-house labs and, in recent years, LMT’s circulation data confirms this trend, showing about a 20% increase in the number of in-house laboratories in the U.S. Some expect this trend to continue to flourish, largely driven by the increasing use of digital technology and its decreasing cost, the advantages of having equipment in house and the increase in large group practices that can more easily support the cost of an in-house lab compared to smaller practices.

The benefits of this business model are touted by dentists and technicians alike. From the dentist’s perspective, an in-house lab provides better communication and patient care, quicker turnaround, and a greater ability to control costs and streamline workflow. In-house technicians value a more collaborative relationship with the dentist, direct patient interaction and the satisfaction of seeing their work in the mouth.