By Dr. Camelia Espahbod, Seattle Precision Orthodontics – Seattle, WA
 | Seattle Precision Orthodontics’ reviews often mention meticulous attention to detail, that the orthodontist listens, and cutting-edge technology. Those qualities are at the heart of why I chose to partner with uLab Systems. With uLab, I’ve been able to deliver the kind of personalized, high-quality care that my patients expect—and I’ve gained an incredible level of control over treatment planning and execution. |
Whether you’re just starting out with aligners or looking to optimize your current workflow, here’s how uLab helps me bring customization and control into every treatment plan:
Custom Branding Builds Patient Confidence
With uLab’s custom branding, every aligner package carries my practice name and logo. Patients notice this. It’s a subtle but powerful way of reinforcing that their treatment is unique, carefully designed, and delivered by their orthodontist. Custom branding elevates your practice’s image and reassures patients that they’re receiving premium, personalized care.
Actionable Tip: Use custom branding to showcase your practice identity. It sets you apart and communicates quality before patients even open the box.
Full Control Over Treatment Plans with uDesign
Before uLab, it wasn’t uncommon for me to accept treatment plans that didn’t reflect my exact instructions, especially when timing was tight. Now, with uDesign, I create the treatment plans—staged exactly as I see fit. Additionally, the quick access to the STL files is what sets uLab apart from most other companies. For examples, in just 30 minutes one can upload a scan, move teeth and export the files either for in-house aligner fabrication or to send to uLab for uSmile aligners. This means no compromises, no waiting on technicians, and complete confidence that my patients are getting the plan I envisioned.
Actionable Tip: Take the reins with uDesign. The ability to plan cases yourself not only improves clinical accuracy but also streamlines your workflow.
Trimline Choices That Fit Patients’ Needs
Every patient is different—and their aligners should reflect that. With uLab, I can choose trimlines based on tooth anatomy. For patients with shorter teeth, I increase the offset to maximize coverage. For patients with larger teeth, I sometimes use a scalloped edge for comfort and esthetics. In the past, I’ve had to reorder aligners from other companies due to inadequate coverage. With uLab, I do not have that issue.
Actionable Tip: Don’t underestimate the impact of trimline choice. Customizing coverage ensures better fit, better force application, and happier patients.
Flexibility from Simple to Complex Cases
I use uLab for everything: simple relapse cases, interdisciplinary full-mouth rehabilitation, and even active retainers after braces. If a patient is moving away, I print the first few aligners in-office and ship the rest to their home—patients love this flexibility. I also appreciate having visibility into the number of aligners needed before I choose a purchase option.
Actionable Tip: Leverage uLab’s versatility. Whether it’s a finishing aligner or a complex interdisciplinary case, having access to a software you can fully rely on to deliver all your clinical intentions is priceless.
Efficient Workflow + Patient Buy-In
My workflow is simple: I design the case once and send it for fabrication. No need to revisit a technician’s interpretation of my instructions and make corrections. Their plans often involved round-tripping, thus increasing the risk of root resorption and gingival recession. I believe that reducing round-tripping leads to safer, more efficient and more accurate treatment. I sometimes walk the patient through the simulation if they are interested or to confirm a treatment plan, either in-office or online. Patients love seeing their future smile before we even start—it builds trust and improves conversion rates.
Adding to the efficiency is uLab’s domestic manufacturing. I receive uSmile aligners 2-3 weeks after ordering and know we won’t be impacted by tariff uncertainties.
Actionable Tip: Show patients their personalized plan when they are unsure of moving forward—it makes them feel heard, informed, and often they accept the recommended treatment.
Final Thought: Change Is Hard, But Worth It
Many experienced colleagues tell me they wouldn’t choose the leading brand if they were starting fresh today—but they’re reluctant to change their workflows. My advice? Don’t let habit dictate your future. Customization and control aren’t luxuries—they’re necessities if you want to deliver precise, efficient, patient-centered orthodontic care.
With uLab Systems, I have the control, flexibility, and efficiency to deliver truly customized treatments—and my patients see and feel the difference every day.
Dr. Camelia Espahbod founded Seattle Precision Orthodontics three years ago. She became a board-certified orthodontist eleven years ago, following her experience as a general dentist. For aligner cases, Dr. Espahbod uses uLab Systems exclusively.
