Can Dentists Mail Impressions to a Dental Lab?
Dentists can safely mail dental impressions to a lab, and it’s a common practice for accessing better quality, faster turnaround, and digital workflows. Summit-Horizon supports both physical and digital submissions nationwide, offering shipping materials, Rx forms, and expert case coordination to make the process reliable and efficient.
Why Mail Dental Impressions?
Dentists mail impressions for several key reasons:
- Access to better labs that specialize in esthetics, implants, or digital workflows
- Increased consistency for multi-location practices using the same lab
- Reduced costs with labs in regions that offer competitive pricing
- Time savings from streamlined shipping, pre-scheduled pickups, and digital communication
With proper packaging and case coordination, mailing impressions are not only viable—it’s often the preferred workflow.
What Can Be Mailed?
You can safely send:
- PVS impressions
- Bite registrations
- Wax-ups and models
- Digital files via scan portals
- Photos for shade matching
At Summit-Horizon, we accept both physical and digital case submissions from across the U.S. Our team provides print-ready Rx forms and shipping materials to simplify the process.
How the Process Works
- Complete the Rx form for the case type
- Package your impressions securely using bubble wrap or foam
- Attach your return shipping label (or request ours)
- Drop off with your preferred carrier or use our scheduled pickup program
- Track the case status through our communication team
We recommend using 2-day shipping for traditional impressions to maintain integrity and fit.
Why Choose Summit-Horizon for Mail-In Cases?
- We specialize in multi-location support, digital onboarding, and clear communication
- Our technicians handle complex esthetic, implant, and zirconia cases daily
- We serve practices nationwide with the same care and responsiveness as our St. Louis neighbors
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I send polyvinyl siloxane (PVS) impressions through the mail?
Yes. Dentists across the U.S. safely ship polyvinyl siloxane (PVS) impressions to their dental labs every day. When properly packaged with protective wrapping such as bubble wrap or foam padding, these impressions remain dimensionally stable during transit. For best results, we recommend using 2-day delivery and Summit-Horizon’s shipping guidelines to ensure accuracy upon arrival.
2. How do I submit a digital impression to a dental lab?
Digital impressions can be sent directly via your scanner portal (iTero, Medit, 3Shape, etc.). Summit-Horizon accepts all major formats and provides onboarding support to make the process seamless.
3. Is it safe to mail dental impressions?
Yes, as long as they're protected against compression and temperature fluctuations. Use foam or bubble wrap and ship in a crush-proof box. We can also provide lab-approved packaging.
4. Do I need to be in Missouri to work with Summit-Horizon?
Not at all. While we’re based in St. Louis, we work with practices nationwide via mail-in and digital submission. We offer support to make remote case coordination easy and stress-free.
5. How long does it take to get a restoration back from a mail-in dental lab?
Turnaround time depends on the restoration type and your shipping method. Most crown and bridge cases are completed within 5–7 business days from the time we receive your impressions.
6. Can I send patient photos or shade tabs with my impressions?
Yes—many dentists include intraoral photos, shade tabs, or shade guides for esthetic cases. These materials help us ensure the best possible match and outcome for your patient.
Share Post
Search Post
Recent Insights
