A New Era for Dental Laboratories

UK Special Risks have been supporting Dental Laboratories and the industry for the past 17 years, in these years we have seen a tremendous digital shift in the way Dental Laboratory owners carry out their work.

We started looking after Dental Laboratories in 2001, and at the time our own processes were completely different to what they are now. We would post a quotation to the laboratory’s address, and if they decided they then wanted to buy the policy, they would return a cheque with a letter confirming they would like to place cover.

As you can imagine, this process is now completely digital whereby we now email new quotations so that a new client can peruse these on their computer or mobile phone. If they are ready to proceed, they will either pay using their card or by doing a bank transfer. Just 17 years on, we are no longer posting 20 page quotations to prospective clients.

We have adapted to this rapidly changing process. The digitalisation of our procedures has been brilliant for UK Special Risks, as it reduced the amount of paper we use by a huge amount, meaning not only has it saved us money, but it has also made us more efficient in terms of posting, chasing and processing cheques, and reduced the amount of paper we use which in turn is good for the environment.

While UK Special Risks has benefitted from this digital revolution, we have seen that this may not be the case for many Dental Laboratories and their owners. Dental Laboratories can be reluctant to make the move to digital coming from the traditional ways of developing and communicating. The idea of trusting a machine to do much of the work may seem a little daunting, especially for those who strive for perfection.

After attending the Dental Technology Show for the past five years, we have been able to see the positive impact of digital growth within the industry, such as introducing new and improved equipment, tools and machinery that laboratories can use to ensure their work is carried out efficiently and impeccably. From CAD/CAM to digital printing, there are many advantages to Digital Dentistry and while the new generation are moving on, it makes you wonder if you don’t keep up, you could get left behind.

It is important to remember that if you buy a new piece of equipment, you should ensure that you have it covered under your insurance policy and for the correct value. This would also play a part in the Business Interruption cover, as you may find it difficult to trade again if you suffer a loss to a digital printer worth £65,000 which insurers did not know you owned.

As always, UK Special Risks ensure we are up to date with the new technology so that we can provide you with the most comprehensive policies.

Should you have any further questions regarding any of the above, please do not hesitate to contact myself on 01634 662948 or email cstillwell@ukspecialrisks.co.uk.