Strategy: More Model-Less and Monolithic

We have focused on streamlining production in a few different ways. One big time saver is offering our “Digital Only” setup, meaning the dentist can opt to receive only the restoration with no model work regardless of whether it’s a digital impression or a traditional PVS impression.

Since this saves on materials and a ton of time—especially when we receive a conventional impression—we pass on a discount to the client. We started this service a few years ago after one dentist purchased a scanner and needed a crown immediately; he was pleased with the quick turnaround and the overall fit and function, so we began offering it to others and they have been really happy with the results. Today, 70-75% of our cases are done without a model.

Also, for the past several years, we’ve been pushing more monolithic or micro-layered restorations, rather than fully layered buildups. We usually suggest pressed e.max in the anterior...