Packaging and Delivery
Packaging and labeling is a step that I feel is often overlooked in aligner fabrication. You purchase a 3D printer, and are ready to get started, but what happens when you’re finally giving the aligners to the patient. As cool as sandwich bags look with their name written in Sharpie, there is a better way. Nicer bags with a ziplock function can be easily found. You can buy Avery labels and print your logo and patient information. It’s not hard to create something presentable.
With every step of aligner fabrication, your systems have to be tight and easily performed by someone with limited orthodontic knowledge. I try to imagine how long it would take someone new to learn my system, even if they had no previous experience in the field. If they can’t learn it in a day, the system is not good enough. There is always room for improvement, but I can get you started on a path to create beautiful aligners that will benefit your office and all your patients.
First step is to decide if you want packaging with your logo, or if you want to join the Premier Aligner network. We’ve created a brand with custom packaging that you can purchase for the same cost we pay. The Premier Aligner Logo and name are already printed on the bags, and come with a ziplock and heat sealable feature. If you want your office logo on the bag, I would recommend having custom printing done on your bags. It looks awesome, and gives a refined look to your product. You can purchase custom printed bags from DH Gate, and they will cost you about $0.14 each depending on the quantity. Alibaba is another source, but DH Gate seems a little easier to work with for purchasing from the U.S.
You’ll want to buy a heat sealer. Several are available on amazon.
In addition to the custom printed logo, you’ll want a label with patient information and stage numbers. I use the 1” x 2 5/8” waterproof labels from Avery, which has enough space for the patients name and stage numbers. I have a Google Sheet and Apple Pages file that allows for easy input of the patient information and stage number for printing. Click the links for download. Video instructions for using the files are located below.
Finally you need a bag or box for delivery of the aligners to the patient. I personally prefer a custom printed plastic bag over a box. Besides being more cost effective, it is easier to store and give to the patient. Especially when only a few stages are involved. As a patient myself, I don’t want to lug around a clunky old box. I would rather have something that takes up less space and can be more easily stored. Either way, it helps to have it custom printed with the logo. Large Premier Aligner bags for this purpose can be purchased at cost, but you can definitely order your own.
Creating a clear aligner lab is one of the best things I’ve done for my patients. I know it will help your office do the same. Please let me know if you have any questions.
-Aaron Swapp
