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.