Academy of Digital Lab Coordinator
Pricing is per person.
The Academy of Digital Lab Coordinator is a complete, video-driven, online educational program for team members interested in understanding the inner workings of a digitally-focused, progressive orthodontic practice! Authored by seasoned ortho practice consultant Gustavo Sanchez, along with the consulting team at Straight Consulting, this program has been meticulously developed to give digital team members a detailed guide to building and running a modern orthodontic lab that serves the demands of Millennial and Gen Z patients. The course begins by tracing the origin of digital technology in orthodontics, then covers every facet of the operation, including: intraoral scanning, software platforms, 3D printing, fabrication, packaging, equipment maintenance, outsourcing solutions, vendor relations, practice communication, and marketing.
Whether your office relies exclusively on third-party aligners from Invisalign or Spark, embraces newer bracket solutions from KLOwen or LightForce, or wants to chart its own course with in-house aligners and custom brackets using platforms like uLab, ArchForm, or Braces on Demand… this course is for you. If you’re a lab tech or even a digital tech, a clinical assistant, or the doctor in a new start-up, and you want to unlock the potential impact a Digital Coordinator can have on your practice, register now for the DC Academy!
8 CE credits available
>>View Course Outline<
Module 1: The DC Defined
- Understand the purpose of the DC role in a digital orthodontic practice.
- Classify the practice’s digital workflow level.
- Describe how the DC role has evolved.
- Distinguish between “tech help” and true coordination.
- Identify the four roles of a DC and basic time-management needs.
Module 2: Scanning for Gold
- Explain why high-quality scans matter.
- Identify key scanning hardware.
- Prepare patients properly for scanning.
- Apply essential pre-scan steps.
- Capture accurate palatal and arch scans.
Module 3: Software Symphony
- Complete accurate case submissions.
- Navigate major software platforms.
- Understand in-house treatment planning stages.
- Use software efficiently to maximize value.
Module 4: DC Treatment Planning
- Support doctors by prepping cases effectively.
- Work as an extension of the doctor’s planning style.
- Set up cases with accuracy and consistency.
- Increase speed and efficiency in treatment planning.
Module 5: Precision Printing
- Understand printing vs. fabricating.
- Identify printer types and uses.
- Set up builds correctly.
- Follow a reliable pre-print checklist.
- Optimize printer performance.
Module 6: Fabricate the Fit
- Set up a safe, efficient digital lab space.
- Apply the six steps of quality fabrication.
- Minimize waste and reduce material loss.
- Improve thermal-forming outcomes.
- Apply workflow principles for efficiency.
Module 7: Packaging & Shipping
- Clean and finish lab output properly.
- Use elevated, custom packaging.
- Track work-in-progress effectively.
- Lab Tracker as a logistical hub.
- Apply receiving protocols across locations.
Module 8: Maintenance & Ordering
- Follow proper equipment-care routines.
- Understand warranties and repair processes.
- Track and manage consumables.
- Order supplies efficiently.
- Use resources responsibly.
Module 9: Outsourcing & Vendor Relations
- Identify when outsourcing is appropriate.
- Use a digital report card (D-CODE) to evaluate workflows.
- Leverage vendor support for training and fixes.
- Maintain smooth coordination with suppliers.
Module 10: Practice Communication
- Follow internal communication protocols.
- Communicate externally with clarity.
- Support change management during workflow updates.
- Bridge gaps between clinic and lab teams.
Module 11: Marketing Strategies
- Highlight benefits of digital workflows.
- Use software to support case acceptance.
- Promote DC value within the practice.
- Develop custom printing ideas that enhance experience.
Module 12: Loading the Future
- Recap key takeaways.
- Create an action plan for workflow improvements.
- Measure progress using simple indicators.
- Identify future growth opportunities.
BONUS Module: Tech Report
- Stay updated on new tools and technology.
- Review recent improvements and updates.
- Track trends to keep the lab current.
