Finding the right dentist can be tricky. Patients want comfort and competence, a personable hygienist, and an insurance coordinator who can answer questions and help maximize their benefits.

In my 23 years of practice, not once has a patient asked me about the dental lab I use. Yet, I believe the difference between a good lab and a great lab makes a huge impact.

For the past 15 years, almost all of my dental restorations have been made by Drake Precision Dental Lab. I choose them for many reasons (in no particular order):

• They’re local. I can sit down face-to-face with their technicians to discuss challenging cases.

• They invest in technology. Gone are the days of dusty labs where a lone technician works in the shadows. Drake looks more like something out of science fiction. The digital scan of my patient’s mouth often arrives before the patient even leaves my office, and most restorations are designed digitally. That means better fit, faster turnaround, and a more predictable process.

• Integrity. I believe they use the best materials available, and I’m happy to invest in quality that lasts.

• Honest communication. Their skilled technicians aren’t afraid to have tough conversations when things don’t go smoothly. I trust them completely when they ask for additional details or adjustments.

The bottom line? My patients may never think about which lab creates their crowns, bridges, or implants—but I do. Partnering with a lab like Drake allows me to deliver dentistry I can stand behind with confidence. They were also the lab I chose when I upgraded my own smile.