How To Add A Dentist On DS Core As A Lab: Complete Step-By-Step Guide

Digital connectivity between dental laboratories and practices has become essential for efficient case management and seamless collaboration. DS Core, the cloud-based platform developed by Dentsply Sirona, serves as the central hub where labs can receive intraoral scans, manage orders, communicate with dentists, and streamline their entire digital workflow.

For dental labs looking to grow their client base and improve operational efficiency, connecting with dentists on DS Core is no longer optional. With the Connect Case Center (CCC) scheduled for complete shutdown in 2026, labs must transition their dentist relationships to DS Core to maintain uninterrupted digital workflows. This guide walks you through every method available for adding dentists to your DS Core network, along with troubleshooting solutions for common errors you might encounter.

Understanding DS Core Lab-Dentist Connections

Before diving into the specific methods for adding dentists, it helps to understand how DS Core structures the relationship between labs and dental practices. The platform operates on a two-way connection model that benefits both parties while maintaining compliance with HIPAA and GDPR regulations.

How The Connection Works

When you set up your lab on DS Core, your profile becomes visible in the platform's directory. Dentists can search for labs based on location, services offered, and specializations. Once a dentist adds your lab as their preferred partner, you can receive orders directly through the platform, view intraoral scans in the 3D web viewer, exchange messages through the built-in chat function, and share design files for approval.

The connection also works in reverse. Labs can proactively invite dentists to join DS Core and propose themselves as preferred partners. This flexibility allows you to bring your existing client relationships onto the platform while also attracting new customers through the directory.

Prerequisites For Labs

Before you can add dentists to your network, ensure you have the following in place:

• An active DS Core lab account (free accounts include ordering features)

• A completed lab profile with your services, working hours, and location

• Directory visibility is enabled in your settings

• Optional: Integration with inLab software or 3Shape Dental System (version 23.1.0 or higher)

Method #1: Inviting Dentists Directly Through DS Core

The most direct way to add a dentist to your DS Core network is through the platform's built-in invitation feature. This method works whether the dentist already has a DS Core account or needs to create one from scratch. According to Dentsply Sirona's feature updates, labs can now invite dentists regardless of what intraoral scanner they use.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to send an invitation to a dentist:

1.  Log in to your DS Core account at dscore.com using your lab credentials.

2.  Navigate to Lab Configuration through the settings menu in the top right corner of your dashboard.

3.  Locate the "Invite Dentists" feature in your lab management options.

4.  Enter the dentist's email address in the invitation form.

5.  Select the option to propose yourself as their preferred lab if you want to streamline the connection process.

6.  Click Send Invitation to dispatch the email.

7.  Wait for the dentist to accept the invitation through the link in their email.

When you propose yourself as a preferred lab during the invitation process, the dentist only needs to click accept to complete the connection. This eliminates the need for them to search through the directory and manually add your lab, making the onboarding process much faster for both parties.

Method #2: Being Discovered Through The Lab Directory

The second method for connecting with dentists involves optimizing your lab profile so practices can find you in the DS Core directory. This passive approach requires less direct outreach but depends on having a complete and compelling profile that attracts potential clients.

Optimizing Your Lab Profile For Discovery

A well-configured profile increases your visibility to dentists searching for lab partners. Complete these steps to maximize your discoverability:

8.  Access Lab Configuration from your DS Core dashboard.

9.  Fill in all profile fields completely, including your lab name, physical address, contact information, and business hours.

10.  List all services you offer, such as crowns, bridges, implant restorations, orthodontic appliances, and specialty items.

11.  Verify that directory visibility is enabled in your privacy settings.

12.  Add any specializations or certifications that differentiate your lab from competitors.

How Dentists Find And Add Your Lab

Understanding the dentist's perspective helps you optimize your profile for their search behavior. According to Dentsply Sirona's documentation, dentists follow this process to add preferred labs:

13.  They log into DS Core and click their Practice account in the top right corner.

14.  They select Practice from the dropdown menu.

15.  They navigate to the Preferred Labs section.

16.  They click "Add preferred lab" to open the directory search.

17.  They search for your lab by name or location.

18.  They click "Add lab" and confirm in the pop-up window.

Once added, your lab appears as active in their preferred labs list, and you can begin receiving orders immediately.

Method #3: Building Connections Through File Sharing

The third method takes a more gradual approach to building dentist relationships on DS Core. Instead of sending formal invitations, you can use the platform's file-sharing capabilities to introduce dentists to the benefits of DS Core organically.

This approach works particularly well for dentists who haven't fully transitioned to digital workflows:

• Share digitized models and design files via DS Core's email sharing function

• Recipients receive a link to view files directly in DS Core without needing a subscription

• Include information about DS Core registration in your communications

• Follow up with a formal invitation once they've experienced the platform's benefits

This method helps analog dentists see the value of digital collaboration before committing to a new platform, making the eventual transition smoother for everyone involved.

Common Errors And How To Resolve Them

Even with straightforward processes, technical issues can arise when connecting labs and dentists on DS Core. The following table outlines the most common errors and their solutions based on support documentation from both Dentsply Sirona and integration partners.

General Troubleshooting Steps

If you encounter persistent issues that the specific solutions above don't resolve, try these general troubleshooting steps:

• Clear your browser cache and cookies, then attempt the action again.

• Test your internet connection stability, as DS Core requires a consistent connection.

• Try accessing DS Core from a different browser or device.

• Check for any maintenance announcements on the DS Core platform.

• Contact DS Core support or submit a request through the customer support portal.

Integrating DS Core With Your Design Software

DS Core's value increases significantly when integrated with your existing CAD/CAM workflow. The platform supports direct connections with major dental design software, allowing you to receive orders and open scan files without manual downloads or file conversions.

3Shape Dental System Integration

According to 3Shape's support documentation, labs with LabCare packages can receive Dentsply Sirona digital impression scans directly into 3Shape Communicate Inbox free of charge. The integration requires:

• 3Shape Dental System version 23.1.0 or higher

• Updated dongle through Dental System Control Panel

• DS Core integration enabled via 3Shape Communicate settings

• Support for Primescan and Omnicam scanners

Once configured, orders placed on DS Core transfer seamlessly to your 3Shape Communicate account. The scans download automatically within one to two minutes, and the margin lines set on the scanner are visible in Dental Designer.

InLab Software Connection

For labs using Dentsply Sirona's inLab software, the connection process involves:

1. Download the DI & CAD/CAM Connector from the DS Downloads page.

2. Install the Connector on every workstation running inLab CAD or CAM.

3. Open the Connector from the Windows system tray.

4. Navigate to "Connection to DS Core" and log in with your lab credentials.

5. Verify that your workstation appears in the Equipment section of DS Core.

This connection enables you to open .dxd files directly in inLab CAD from DS Core, eliminating manual file transfers and reducing the risk of version confusion.

Supported File Formats

DS Core accommodates various file formats to ensure compatibility with different CAD/CAM systems:

• Native formats: .dxd files for direct inLab import

• Universal formats: .stl, .ply, and .obj for third-party software

• Exocad-compatible exports for labs using that platform

• 3D web viewer support for STL, PLY, and OBJ files directly in the browser

Best Practices For Managing Dentist Relationships

Building a strong network of dentist connections on DS Core requires more than just sending invitations. These best practices help you maintain productive relationships and maximize the platform's benefits.

• Migrate existing clients proactively. With Connect Case Center shutting down in 2026, reach out to your current dentist partners now to establish DS Core connections before the deadline.

• Keep your lab profile current. Update your services, hours, and contact information regularly to ensure dentists have accurate expectations.

• Use the built-in chat for case clarifications. The messenger-style communication keeps all case-related discussions in one place and maintains HIPAA compliance.

• Send design proposals through DS Core. Sharing designs for dentist approval creates a documented workflow and reduces miscommunication.

• Export PDF worksheets for internal documentation. The worksheet feature captures order details, patient information, and treatment specifications for your records.

• Take advantage of free onboarding. Dentsply Sirona offers complimentary consultation and onboarding sessions in multiple languages to help you maximize DS Core's features.

Bottom Line

Adding dentists to your DS Core network as a dental lab involves three primary methods: direct invitations, directory discovery, and organic relationship building through file sharing. Each approach serves different situations, from onboarding existing clients to attracting new customers.

The transition from Connect Case Center to DS Core represents a significant shift in digital dental workflows, and labs that establish strong dentist connections now will be better positioned when CCC shuts down completely. Start inviting your existing clients today, optimize your lab profile for directory visibility, and integrate DS Core with your design software for maximum efficiency.