A quick guide for smooth, accurate, and stress-free results
When an implant case comes in, our goal is simple: make it fit perfectly the first time. The key to that is clear communication and a complete set of records from the start. Here’s what we as a lab need — and how you can help make every case smooth, fast, and predictable.
What We Need from You – Implant Checklist
Every implant case is unique, but the basics of what we need stay the same. Having all this information upfront helps us design and mill precisely, reducing adjustments or delays later.
Before you send your case, make sure to include:
- Implant information – implant system, size, position, and any surgeon’s notes or X-rays if needed.
- Choose the correct scan body for the implant system being used (brand, connection, size). Please include which specific scan body was used when sending the case to us — this ensures we match the digital library and model exactly.
- On the Rx, please specify whether occlusion is required for the implant crown or not (in most implant single-crowns, true occlusion is not required, but if you want we can design light contact or no contact — let us know).
- Custom abutment details – include emergence profile, angulation, and desired margin placement. Before sending the case, think about which abutment material — titanium or zirconia — will work best, especially in the anterior.
- Crown material – E.max, zirconia, layered zirconia or e.max — let us know what you prefer.
- Aesthetic level – how detailed and lifelike should the restoration be?
- Shade photos and bite records – shade tabs in the photo are especially helpful.
- Future treatment plan – if this case is part of a larger plan, let us know so we can plan accordingly.
Step-by-Step: Setting Up a Successful Case
A few simple steps make a big difference in fit and turnaround time:
- Send accurate scans or impressions. For digital cases, make sure your scan captures full soft tissue and occlusion.
- Ensure the chosen scan body has been properly seated and scanned — the correct orientation and compatibility with the implant system matter for accuracy. Here are some links to our partner scan body compatibility: Argen, Nobel, Straumann, Densply Sirona (Atlantis). If you are unsure you can always give us a call.
- Share patient photos. They help with contour and shade matching — especially anterior cases.
- Merge your digital files. If you’re using guided surgery, make sure your scan and CBCT are merged before sending.
- Review the setup with us if needed. A quick call or video review early on saves time later.
Smooth Cases = Happy Patients
Implant cases can move quickly and predictably when everything arrives complete. When impressions are accurate, photos are clear, and information is consistent, the case flows straight through production — no back-and-forth, no remakes, no stress.
That means:
- Less chair time for you.
- Fewer adjustments at delivery.
- Faster turnaround.
- Happier patients.
How to Keep It Smooth
It’s not about avoiding mistakes — it’s about setting up the case for success. Here are a few things that keep cases moving fast:
- Send all digital files together (don’t forget the opposing scan).
- Label the scan body used (system/size) and note occlusion preference on the Rx so we don’t have to follow up for clarification.
- Double-check that your scan or impression is fully seated around the implant.
- Always note if a temporary is in place or if we’re matching existing restorations.
- Communicate shade and material preferences clearly on the Rx.
When these small details are right from the beginning, everything after that goes smoothly — and everyone wins.
Trust Your Lab Partner
If you’re ever unsure about something — even while the patient is in the chair — call us. We’re happy to take a look, help you plan, or walk through a case together.
That’s what we’re here for: to make sure every implant case fits perfectly, looks great, and keeps your patients smiling.
Want to see some of our implant work? Check out our implant cases here to see how these steps help us get perfect results every time.
