How to Set Up a Dental Lab: 10 Must-Have Tools and Machines

Setting up a dental laboratory requires more than just a space and a technician — it takes the right tools and equipment to produce high-quality dental restorations efficiently and accurately. Whether you are starting small or building a full-service lab, choosing the right equipment from the start can help save time, improve precision, and ensure consistent results.

Here’s a simple overview of the essential equipment needed to set up a modern dental lab, especially for CAD/CAM workflows.

1. Dental CAD/CAM Milling Machine

A milling machine is at the heart of most digital dental labs. It is used to mill dental restorations from various materials like zirconia, PMMA, wax, or glass ceramics.

• Types: 4-axis or 5-axis machines

• Recommended for: Crowns, bridges, inlays, onlays, implant abutments

• Tip: Choose an open system milling machine for more flexibility in material compatibility.

  
  

  

HONCHON offers compatible zirconia milling burs and supports open systems, making integration smoother.

2. Intraoral or Desktop Scanner

Scanners are used to digitize the patient’s oral situation or model. Desktop scanners are a must-have in the lab for receiving traditional impressions or stone models.

• Intraoral scanners: Used by clinics, but labs can scan stone models or impressions

• Desktop scanners: High accuracy and cost-effective for lab use

• Compatibility: Ensure your scanner supports open STL file exports

3. Dental Design Software (CAD)

Once the model is scanned, you need CAD software to design the restoration. Popular options include exocad, 3Shape, and Dental Wings.

• Uses: Designing crowns, bridges, frameworks, veneers, dentures

• Note: A good software license and training are important for consistent workflow

4. Sintering Furnace

For zirconia restorations, a sintering furnace is used to harden and stabilize the milled units.

• Temperature Range: Up to 1530°C

• Features: Multi-step sintering curves, compatible with multilayer zirconia

• Cycle Time: Some advanced models offer fast sintering in under 2 hours

HONCHON zirconia blocks are compatible with standard and fast sintering protocols.

5. High-Quality Dental Materials

Your lab’s output depends heavily on the quality of materials used. A reliable supplier ensures stable performance and aesthetic results.

• Zirconia Blocks: For permanent restorations (HT, ST, UT, multilayer, pre-shaded)

• PMMA Blocks: For temporary crowns and bridges

• Glass Ceramics: For esthetic anterior restorations

• Titanium or PEEK Discs: For implant structures

  
  

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HONCHON provides OEM and private label services with a full range of dental materials.

6. Polishing, Staining & Glazing Equipment

After milling and sintering, restorations need to be polished and finished to match natural aesthetics.

• Stain & Glaze Kits: For coloring and final touches

• Polishing tools: Rubber wheels, diamond pastes

• Brushes & Spray Guns: For uniform application of stains and glazes

7. 3D Printer (Optional but Useful)

3D printing is becoming more popular in labs for making models, splints, and custom trays.

• Resin Printers: Affordable and precise

• Applications: Model printing, temporary restorations, surgical guides

• Note: Not mandatory but adds versatility

8. Dental Milling Burs

Precision tools like milling burs directly affect restoration accuracy and surface quality.

• Types: Zirconia burs, PMMA burs, metal burs, glass ceramic burs

• Coatings: DC, DLC, and diamond-coated for long-lasting use

• Compatibility: Match your milling burs with your machine (Roland, AG, Sirona, etc.)

HONCHON produces high-quality milling burs with reliable performance and OEM support.

9. Vacuum Cleaner or Dust Extractor

To keep your lab clean and safe, use dust extraction systems to remove zirconia or PMMA dust during milling and polishing.

10. Basic Tools & Accessories

These include:

• Articulators

• Model trimmers

• Handpieces and micromotors

• Workbenches and lights

• Storage drawers for discs and tools

 Final Thoughts

Setting up a dental lab is a step-by-step process. Start with the essentials, and expand as your workflow grows. Choosing reliable equipment and materials from the beginning can help reduce remakes, increase efficiency, and build trust with your dentist clients.

At HONCHON, we support dental labs with:

• High-quality zirconia, PMMA, and ceramic blocks

• Compatible milling burs for all major systems

• OEM and custom solutions

• Fast shipping and responsive support

Contact:

Email: luis@honchon.com

WhatsApp: +8613055185196

Interested in setting up your dental lab? Reach out to us for a material list and technical support.