The dental landscape is changing fast. As dental labs and clinics adapt to economic pressures, new technology, and workforce challenges, folks are looking for smarter, longer-term investments to stay competitive.
At Vaniman, we’ve been paying attention for a long time. Here are three critical trends that we think matter right now — and how Vaniman is uniquely positioned to help dental labs meet them head-on!
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TREND #1: The 3D printing boom is real — and labs are scaling up
In 2025, 3D printing is no longer “next-gen” — it’s here, it’s mainstream, and it’s transforming how labs operate.
According to LMT’s recent State of the Industry 2025 research (February Issue), 41% of labs intend to cut costs through better operating efficiency, which, reading between the lines, means technology. 32% intend to invest in additional digital equipment. These are some incredible numbers!
The ability to print crowns, bridges, aligners, and surgical guides in-house allows labs to reduce turnaround times, increase customization, and lower long-term costs. Labs who aren’t doing these things with sophisticated machinery and software are already getting left behind.
But there’s a catch. With all that additive manufacturing, labs face even more airborne particles, debris, fumes, and contamination that can wreak havoc on lab equipment and the quality of printed parts — not to mention the health of the staff.
Why it matters:
A surge in 3D printing puts new demands on lab environments. Dental lab technicians need dry dust extraction that’s fine-tuned for additive workflows — not just any vacuum will do. Labs that don’t manage these particulates risk damaging expensive printers, compromising the accuracy of their prints, and losing money on powder that could have been reclaimed. (That powder gets real expensive, real fast!)
Where Vaniman fits:
Enter the StoneVac AM — a unit purpose-built for additive manufacturing. Designed for continuous use in tight spaces, this Class II, Division 2 vacuum features adjustable high-powered operation, high-efficiency filtration, and direct compatibility with today’s most popular dry powder 3D printers. Powder reclamation has never been easier, or more efficient.
🔗 Learn more about the StoneVac AM
What about resin?
Resin-based 3D printers have their own set of requirements, and there’s quite a variety of brands and models on the market.
One thing they all have in common: fumes.
Even if you can’t smell a strong odor, resin fumes are still toxic. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are hard to capture without a sturdy activated charcoal filter — which comes included with every Pure Breeze HEPA Air Purifier or Pure Breeze HEPA Fume Hood we make.
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Pure Breeze HEPA Air Purifier – 10360A
$1,984.66 – $2,117.53 -
Pure Breeze HEPA Fume Hood – 10370
$1,984.66
The Pure Breeze lineup was designed for dental labs and all the assorted indoor air quality risks posed therein. With four stages of filtration (including hospital grade HEPA and a high quality activated charcoal layer) and a powerful but quiet motor, you can purify the air you breathe and get those fumes out of your lab for good.
🔗 More Info: Pure Breeze HEPA Air Purifier Case Study
TREND #2: Sustainability isn’t optional anymore — it’s expected
Lab owners and dentists alike are rethinking how they buy equipment. There’s more pressure than ever to reduce waste, extend the life of equipment, and move away from disposable tools and short-term fixes.
Why it matters:
Eco-conscious dentistry is on the rise. But it’s not just about optics — smart practices want to minimize downtime and maximize the ROI of every piece of equipment.
That means prioritizing durability and reparability.
Where Vaniman fits:
Every Vaniman system is engineered to last. These units aren’t built for planned obsolescence — they’re built to be maintained and upgraded over time. Many labs still use Vaniman dust collectors purchased over a decade ago, thanks to our commitment to offering parts, filters, and support long after the initial sale.
TREND #3: Labs are struggling to hire and keep good technicians — better tools make the difference
Technician burnout is real, and staffing shortages are hitting labs hard. Skilled techs are being asked to do more with less — and the physical demands of grinding, sandblasting, and polishing are pushing many to their limits.
Why it matters:
Lab work is physically intense. Repetitive strain, poor air quality, and noisy workstations all add up to lower job satisfaction — and higher turnover. Forward-thinking labs are investing in tools that make the job easier, cleaner, and more ergonomic.
Where Vaniman fits:
Our dust collectors aren’t just about cleanliness — they’re about creating better work environments. Clean air, low noise levels, and high suction help reduce fatigue and increase productivity. Pair that with Vaniman Autopilot systems — which automatically power on suction when a technician begins working — and you’re giving techs tools that actually make their jobs easier and safer.
Bonus benefit: Autopilot functionality also reduces energy waste and extends equipment life — a win-win for labs looking to stretch budgets.
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Vanguard Platinum 2X – 10330
$1,178.64 – $1,353.80 -
StoneVac II Plus – 10202
$1,547.76 – $1,710.17 -
AutoPilot (Next Generation) – 96073
$455.86
Design it right:
Vaniman’s AutoPilot technology works best when paired with a complete system designed to the lab’s specific workflow and layout — that’s why we offer a free suction system design to any lab that wants one! Our engineers can create a 3D model with a specifically selected assortment of dust collectors, accessories, and other equipment based on that lab’s specific needs, not just for today but for the future.
All we need is the lab’s dimensions and what workstations go where, and our engineers can provide a rendering, a bill of materials for you to order, and instructions for the customer to install it all.
Bank on it: a smarter lab with smarter suction and smarter equipment helps prevent staff turnover. Visit our Design Center page or fill out the form below to get started.
It’s about the present and the future
These trends aren’t going anywhere — perhaps the right word isn’t “trends,” but “evolution” — and the labs that respond to them smartly will thrive.
Vaniman brings solutions, not just products. It’s our entire ethos. That’s how we’ve built long-term trust and repeat business since 1985.
Vaniman is here to help. If you need more product info, sales materials, or need a question answered, just reach out. With Vaniman, you’ve got our whole team behind you — and we’re all-in on helping you succeed, for right now and for the future.