Submitting zirconia veneer cases digitally can save time—if done right.
But without clean scans, proper margin visibility, and organized files, even the best veneer designs risk delays or remakes.
This article outlines exactly what your lab needs for predictable fit, esthetics, and fast turnaround in digital zirconia veneer workflows.
To successfully submit zirconia veneer cases digitally, clinicians must provide high-resolution intraoral scans with visible margins, opposing arch and bite scans, shade photos, and clearly labeled files. Choosing a compatible submission platform and following lab-specific protocols ensures timely, accurate results.
Pre-Submission Requirements for Zirconia Veneer Cases
Before a digital zirconia veneer case can be fabricated successfully, the lab needs a complete and accurate dataset. Submitting incomplete scans or incompatible formats often leads to delays, design errors, or remake requests. At Raytops, we recommend following a strict pre-submission checklist to ensure every veneer case moves into design without technical hold-ups.
Zirconia-veneer-digital-submission-prep
Required Intraoral Scan File Types (STL, PLY, OBJ)
- STL (.stl): Most universally accepted for 3D shape
- PLY (.ply): Includes surface color data for shade reference
- OBJ (.obj): Occasionally used with color + texture mapping (less common in veneer cases)
Confirm that your scanner or software exports clean mesh without distortion, particularly around incisal edges.
Occlusion and Prep Margin Visibility
- Ensure scans include:
- Full arch with prep and opposing arch
- Bite scan / occlusion registration
- Clear, uninterrupted view of finish lines and incisal angles
Any shadowing, saliva pooling, or motion blur near margins can result in poor seating or under-contoured design.
Shade Selection and Case Photos
- Submit:
- Digital shade tab selection (VITA or comparable)
- Prep shade photo under natural or neutral light
- Contralateral tooth reference photo
For anterior veneers, we highly recommend submitting retracted, close-up frontal and lateral smile views.
Choosing a Compatible Lab and Platform
- Before uploading, verify:
- Your lab accepts your scanner’s output (e.g., 3Shape Communicate, Exocad)
- You’re using the correct submission channel (lab portal, direct link, FTP)
- Your scan files meet the lab’s required format (monolithic? cutback? multilayer?)
Labs like Raytops provide submission guidelines by scanner brand to help clinicians reduce turnaround errors.
✅ Complete scan data and supporting visuals are essential before submitting zirconia veneer cases – TRUE
Missing occlusion or unclear margins delay production and compromise fit accuracy.
❌ As long as the prep is visible, the rest of the scan can be adjusted later – FALSE
Labs cannot digitally recreate occlusion, shade, or contact points post-submission without clinical re-scans.
Preparing the Digital File for Accurate Zirconia Veneer Fabrication
Once your scan data is captured, how you organize, annotate, and submit those files can directly affect the outcome of your zirconia veneer case. From a lab’s perspective, even high-quality scans can be compromised by unclear margin markings, misnamed files, or missing instructions. Proper digital preparation improves design precision, reduces back-and-forth, and lowers remake risk.
Zirconia-veneer-digital-file-preparation
Margin Marking and Restoration Type Selection
- Use your software’s tools to:
- Manually mark or verify margin lines
- Select “veneer” as the restoration type, not “crown” or “inlay”
- Flag any feathered or subgingival areas that need special attention
If your scanner auto-marks margins, double-check for missed or blended areas.
Indicating Thickness and Reduction Zones
| Area | Ideal Reduction | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Facial incisal third | 0.7–1.0 mm | Allows for proper layering |
| Mid-facial | 0.5–0.7 mm | Minimum for zirconia strength |
| Cervical third | 0.3–0.5 mm | Margin feathering possible |
If prep is thinner than 0.3 mm in any zone, note this so we can reinforce during design.
Annotating Contact Adjustments or Special Instructions
- Use digital annotation tools or separate notes to mark:
- Areas needing light or heavy contact adjustment
- Requests for cutback vs. monolithic layering
- Contact opening (if spacing or black triangle correction planned)
Clear, case-specific instructions reduce risk of misfit or esthetic mismatch.
File Naming and Folder Structuring
- Label each file clearly:
PatientName_UpperArch.stl,PatientName_BiteScan.stl, etc.
- Organize into:
- Prep + opposing arch
- Bite scan
- Photos (shade, retracted, smile)
- Instructions/notes
Compress into a single ZIP folder before upload for clean and traceable handling.
Proper digital preparation doesn’t just help your lab—it ensures your patient gets what they expect the first time. A small investment in organization can prevent costly corrections down the line.
Common Digital Platforms for Submitting Veneer Cases
Choosing the right digital platform to submit zirconia veneer cases isn’t just about convenience—it affects file fidelity, lab turnaround, and communication clarity. From the lab side, we’ve seen many cases delayed or remade simply due to incompatible file transfers or unclear uploads. Understanding the pros and limitations of common platforms helps clinics streamline submission and avoid unnecessary back-and-forth.
Digital-platforms-for-veneer-submission
3Shape Communicate and Exocad Portals
| Platform | Strengths | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| 3Shape Communicate | Seamless integration, auto-uploads to linked labs | Lab must be registered on 3Shape LabList |
| Exocad Webview/Upload | Highly customizable, good with open workflows | Requires manual sync with lab software |
Both systems allow embedded margin markings, contact notes, and STL compression.
Ivoclar Digital or Open Lab Systems
| Platform Type | Best For | Watch Outs |
|---|---|---|
| Ivoclar Digital | Labs using PrograMill workflow | Not all veneer designs are compatible with milling restrictions |
| Open Portal (Raytops) | Universal STL / ZIP uploads | Be sure to name files and folders consistently |
If using a third-party scanner, confirm the lab supports your system (e.g., Medit, Planmeca, etc.)
Secure File Transfer vs. Online Upload
❌ Unsecure email or WeTransfer links often strip metadata or delay case import.
✅ Secure SFTP, HIPAA/GDPR-compliant portals, or platform-native uploads are ideal.
Avoid informal methods unless specifically instructed by the lab.
Multi-File Bundling and Upload Confirmations
To ensure clean submission flow:
- Compress all files into a ZIP folder with clear naming
- Upload through verified portal or lab-specific login
- Wait for confirmation message or download receipt
- If no confirmation within 12 hours, follow up via email or portal messaging
Lack of confirmation is the top reason for cases going “missing” in the queue.
✅ Choosing the right digital platform improves submission security, speed, and case tracking – TRUE
System compatibility and confirmation workflows reduce error loops and remake risks.
❌ All scan systems are cross-compatible with any lab – FALSE
Each lab has approved pipelines—submitting outside these increases conversion errors or case delays.
Post-Submission Workflow for Zirconia Veneer Cases
Submitting a digital veneer case is only the first step—the real success comes from what happens after the file reaches the lab. A well-structured post-submission workflow ensures that design intent is preserved, clinical fit is accurate, and the final restoration meets esthetic expectations. At Raytops, we follow a clear 4-step post-submission process to keep clinicians informed and cases on track.
Zirconia-veneer-post-submission-workflow
Step-by-Step Post-Submission Process
1. File Review by Lab Technician
- Each case is opened and reviewed within 24 hours
- Margin visibility, occlusion completeness, and restoration type are verified
- Any missing elements (e.g., prep photo, bite scan) are flagged immediately
2. Feedback Requests and Design Adjustments
- If needed, the lab will:
- Send screenshots of unclear areas
- Request approval on material choice, cutback vs. monolithic, or incisal layering
- Minor design tweaks are handled digitally without delaying case entry
3. Approval Confirmation and Manufacturing Start
- Once approved:
- Case is moved into CAM/CAD
- Technician begins designing veneer in lab software
- Print/sintering scheduling begins (depending on production method)
4. Estimated Delivery and Case Tracking
- You will receive:
- Final approval file or design screenshot
- Estimated delivery window
- Tracking information once shipped
For urgent or esthetic-critical cases, express production slots are available.
Additional Coordination Points
- A designated technician may reach out for:
- Cross-checking smile design
- Photographic verification for incisal translucency
- Confirming preparation type vs. veneer style
This keeps complex cases personalized, without assuming clinical intent.
A reliable lab workflow isn’t just about precision—it’s about communication. Confirming fit, esthetics, and production status reduces stress for the clinician and sets clear expectations for the patient.
Avoiding Common Mistakes in Digital Zirconia Veneer Submissions
Even experienced digital users occasionally submit zirconia veneer cases with critical errors that delay production or compromise outcome quality. From the lab’s standpoint, most issues are preventable with better scanning discipline, clearer file organization, and closer platform alignment. This section breaks down the most common mistakes—and what to do instead.
Zirconia-veneer-submission-mistakes-lab-view
Common Technical Oversights
- Incomplete or poorly captured margins due to soft tissue or scanner angle
- Missing bite scan or opposing arch, especially in anterior cases
- No indication of material thickness needs or restoration coverage intent
- Submitting to labs not compatible with scanner platform
These errors trigger feedback loops that delay case entry and reduce confidence in final outcomes.
✅ Clear margins, full bite scans, and labeled files are required for reliable veneer production – TRUE
These are not optional—accurate data inputs are the foundation of digital veneer success.
❌ Digital files can be corrected by the lab later if anything is missing – FALSE
Labs cannot re-generate occlusion, margin clarity, or esthetic data after submission. Missing files lead to delay or failure.
Digital Workflow Optimization: Best Practices for Long-Term Success
Once the basics of digital zirconia veneer submission are in place, the next step is to streamline your workflow for efficiency, repeatability, and reduced rework. Clinics that standardize their digital process see faster turnaround, fewer errors, and more consistent esthetic results. From the lab side, we can confirm: the best-performing clients aren’t those with the most expensive scanners—but those with the most consistent habits.
Digital-dental-workflow-best-practices-veneers
Use a Repeatable Prep and Scan Protocol
- Standardize reduction depth and finish line visibility
- Always scan opposing arch and bite in same order
- Build a habit checklist for the assistant or scan operator
- Avoid switching scan devices between similar cases
Consistency beats improvisation—especially when working with labs remotely.
Create Case-Type Templates in Software
- In Exocad, 3Shape, or Medit Link, set:
- Default material: zirconia veneer
- Margin type: feathered or chamfer
- Restoration shape: veneer (not crown)
- Notes field for esthetic requirements (cutback, translucency zone)
Templates reduce planning time and prevent default errors.
Maintain a Digital Submission Checklist
| Submission Element | Status | Verified By |
|---|---|---|
| STL + bite + opposing | ✅ Required | [Name / Date] |
| Shade photo (VITA format) | ✅ Recommended | [Name / Date] |
| Prep & smile photos | ✅ Ideal | [Name / Date] |
| Written veneer request | ✅ Required | [Name / Date] |
Have your team fill this out before every case upload. We see 20–30% fewer issues from clinics using this method.
Build Lab-Specific Preference Sheets
- Define preferred material style (e.g., monolithic HT zirconia vs. cutback)
- Add common reduction depths, stain effects, and layering notes
- Share smile design notes or digital library references
Your lab will return more consistent results when expectations are codified—not implied.
Optimizing your digital workflow is not about speed—it’s about control.
Want a ready-to-use veneer submission checklist or sample preference sheet? Our team can share templates that align with your scanner, case type, and lab requirements for zirconia veneer success.
Conclusion
Digital zirconia veneer submission doesn’t have to be complicated—but it does require discipline.
- Zirconia scan requirements: Provide STL or PLY files with visible margins and occlusion scans.
- Zirconia file prep: Mark margins, label files, and include photos or instructions clearly.
- Zirconia platforms: Use lab-compatible platforms with secure, tracked upload methods.
- Zirconia lab workflow: Know what happens post-submission and what feedback to expect.
- Zirconia mistakes: Avoid missing scans, unclear margins, or incompatible formats.
- Zirconia digital checklist: Standardize your internal submission habits to improve reliability and lab outcomes.
Need a submission checklist or want to confirm your scanner’s compatibility with our zirconia system? Contact Raytops Dental and we’ll send our latest digital protocol guide, plus a sample case upload folder.
