Smile Design

What Is Smile Design?

Smile design is a modern approach to cosmetic dentistry that combines aesthetics and meticulous planning to create the ideal smile for each individual patient. Our process incorporates precise analysis and custom design to make your new smile a reality.

Benefits of Smile Design

Smile design is a favored multi-step treatment option for a myriad number of reasons. Some of the many benefits of smile design include:

  • Precision: Smile design allows for precise planning and design, ensuring that your new smile aligns perfectly with your facial features and proportions.
  • Tailored Treatment: Each aspect of your smile makeover is customized to your unique needs and goals, resulting in a smile that’s as individual as you are.
  • Improved Functionality: Smile design not only focuses on aesthetics but also ensures that your new smile functions harmoniously, promoting better oral health.
  • Enhanced Confidence: A beautiful smile can boost your self-confidence and leave a lasting positive impression.

Are You Interested in Cosmetic Improvements to Your Smile?

You may qualify for a smile makeover if any of the following apply to you:

  • Cosmetic Concerns: Stained, discolored, misaligned, chipped, or damaged teeth.
  • Alignment Issues: Misaligned teeth, bite problems, or gaps.
  • Esthetic Improvement: Desiring a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
  • Functional Concerns: Functional concerns related to their bite, jaw alignment, or overall oral health.
  • Missing Teeth: Seeking lasting solutions to restore the smile.

The Smile Design Process

Initial Consultation

During this visit, Dr. Miller or Dr. Copper will discuss your goals, concerns, and preferences for your smile makeover. Our process is highly personalized, ensuring that both the aesthetics and functionality of your smile meet your individual preferences and needs.

Occlusal Analysis

To achieve a smile that not only looks fantastic but also functions seamlessly, we perform a comprehensive occlusal analysis. This involves evaluating your bite, jaw alignment, and how your teeth come together when you close your mouth.

Imaging

High-quality dental photography and precise measurements are taken to capture detailed images of your teeth and facial structures. These serve as the foundation for the smile design process.

Wax-Up and Smile Mock-Up

A wax-up model and smile mock-up will be created to provide a three-dimensional representation of your new smile. This step allows you to visualize the changes and make any necessary adjustments before the final treatment. 

Before your final treatment is implemented, your dentist will place temporary restorations based on the wax mock-up. These will serve as the ‘test-run’ for your new smile and allow you to make further changes to the final product based on how your temporaries perform.

Treatment Implementation

Once the smile design is perfected and approved, we’ll implement the chosen cosmetic procedures. The treatment will vary based on your specific needs. 

Smile Design Aftercare

To maintain the results of your smile design, it’s vital to follow proper aftercare procedures. Our dentists recommend the following to keep your new smile in top shape:

  • Maintain Regular Dental Checkups: Schedule and attend routine dental checkups to ensure the longevity of your newly designed smile. Your dentist will monitor the condition of your restorations and overall oral health.
  • Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene: Continue to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to prevent plaque buildup and maintain the cleanliness of your dental restorations.
  • Use Non-Abrasive Toothpaste: Opt for non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid damaging the surfaces of your dental restorations, especially if they include veneers or crowns.
  • Avoid Chewing on Hard Objects: Refrain from biting down on hard objects like ice, pens, or fingernails, as this can potentially damage your dental restorations.
  • Wear a Mouthguard: If you grind your teeth at night or engage in contact sports, consider wearing a custom-made mouthguard to protect your smile design from potential harm.
  • Limit Staining Foods and Beverages: Reduce your consumption of staining substances such as coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco products. These can discolor your dental restorations over time.
  • Address Any Discomfort: If you experience any discomfort or notice a change in your smile design, contact your dentist promptly. Timely intervention can prevent potential issues from escalating.
  • Monitor Gum Health: Keep an eye on the health of your gums and report any signs of inflammation or bleeding to your dentist. Healthy gums are essential for the stability of your dental restorations.
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