In the fast-moving world of digital dentistry, your lab’s success is often tied to the tools you use. With new technology, faster workflows, and increasing client expectations, outdated or underperforming equipment can quietly hold your business back. But that doesn’t mean you need to invest in a full lab overhaul all at once. Knowing when (and how) to upgrade your equipment can help you stay competitive without overextending your budget.
Here’s how to recognize when it’s time for an upgrade—and how to do it smartly with help from AmericaSmiles.
Signs It’s Time to Upgrade Your Equipment
If you’ve been operating with the same tools for years, it might be time to step back and evaluate. These are a few signs that your lab could benefit from upgrading equipment:
- Slow Turnaround Times: If your current tools are causing production bottlenecks or forcing you to outsource cases, you’re losing time—and money.
- Increasing Repairs or Maintenance Costs: Regular downtime, frequent repairs, or the inability to get parts is a strong signal that your equipment may be costing more than it’s worth.
- Incompatibility with New Materials or Software: If your mill or printer can’t process newer materials—or won’t integrate with the latest software—your lab may be falling behind in offerings.
- Limited Case Acceptance: Turning down cases due to technical limitations (e.g., implant workflows, digital dentures) means missed opportunities for revenue and growth.
- Feedback from Clients: Are dentists asking for faster turnarounds, better esthetics, or newer materials? Your equipment might be the gap between your current output and client expectations.
Smart Upgrade Paths for Every Lab
Upgrading doesn’t have to mean replacing everything at once. At AmericaSmiles, we help labs take practical, strategic steps based on budget, workflow, and goals. Here are a few smart approaches:
1. Upgrade One Piece at a Time
Start with the equipment that creates the biggest bottleneck—or that unlocks a new revenue stream. Examples:
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Replace your aging mill with a new UP3D F53 or F53DC for faster, more precise restorations.
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Add a 3D printer like the NextDent 5100 to bring model or nightguard production in-house.
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Upgrade your scanner or design software to improve overall efficiency and compatibility.
Tip: Our team can help you evaluate your workflow and recommend where to start for the biggest return.
2. Bundle and Save
If you’re planning to expand or modernize several parts of your workflow, bundling can provide significant savings. For example, the UP3D Premium Digital Bundle includes:
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Mill & vacuum system
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Sintering oven
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Scanner
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Exocad and Millbox software
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Member pricing on materials
This all-in-one solution offers labs up to $10,000 in savings compared to piecing together equipment from multiple providers.
3. Finance Your Investment
AmericaSmiles offers flexible financing options to help labs access the technology they need without a large upfront cost. With monthly payment plans, you can get the equipment that drives growth and generate revenue before you even finish paying it off.
We can also work with you to time your investment around seasonal demand or available tax deductions.
Why Upgrade with AmericaSmiles?
When you purchase equipment through AmericaSmiles, you’re not just getting a machine—you’re gaining a partner.
- Expert Consultation: We help you evaluate your lab’s needs, goals, and current equipment to build a smart upgrade path. - Equipment We Actually Use: Our milling and broadcast centers use the same mills, printers, and software we recommend to you—so we know what works. - Exclusive Pricing & Perks: Many systems come with free materials, member discounts, or extended service plans. - Ongoing Support: From installation to training and troubleshooting, our team is here to help every step of the way.
