Having an even and functional smile can do a lot for a person’s quality of life and self-confidence. It’s not always easy to achieve that picture-perfect grin, especially if the person experiences dental issues such as misalignment, discolouration, or other concerns. However, advances in cosmetic dentistry, such as Digital Smile Design (DSD), have gone a long way towards making an ideal smile attainable for everyone.
Previously, it was hard to visualise the end result of cosmetic dentistry procedures. This could sometimes lead to patient dissatisfaction if the outcome was not what they expected. Today, DSD uses digital technology to show patients a simulation of the completed smile; this removes the guesswork and allows patients to get involved in the process earlier, giving them more control over the result and better peace of mind.
How does digital smile design work?
Using digital technology, DSD captures high-resolution images of a patient’s facial and jaw structure using intraoral scanners and photography. These images and scans will then be used to build a 3D model of the patient’s teeth that suits their facial features and oral needs. This will be shown to the patient via a 3D simulation for their feedback.
At this stage, patients can see the expected outcome of their smile from all angles and will be able to work further with their dentists to arrive at a smile they are satisfied with. Once the plan is confirmed, the dentist will create a personalised roadmap for the smile treatment that details the necessary procedures and expected timeline to achieve the intended result.
Depending on the patient’s oral health and intended result, suggested treatments may include anything from cosmetic procedures such as veneers and bonding to orthodontic treatments such as clear aligners or braces. Teeth with prior damage may need treatments like crowns, bridges, and dental implants. Gum contouring may also be suggested in instances where the patient has an overly gummy smile.
Why choose digital smile design?
There are many reasons why individuals looking to improve their smile may opt for DSD treatment. Here are a few:
1. Better predictability
DSD’s ability to simulate results before the actual treatment begins can go a long way towards giving patients peace of mind. Patients will be able to see what the smile will look like on their face and how different treatment options will affect the outcome, which can help them feel more confident about the process.
2. High personalisation
Through DSD, dentists are able to analyse a patient’s facial proportions and characteristics in greater detail, then tailor the new smile design accordingly. This ensures that the improved smile looks natural and harmonises with the patient’s features — a level of customisation that has historically been more difficult to achieve with traditional methods, which tend to concentrate purely on the teeth and gums.
3. Improved precision
The modern technologies used in the DSD process give dentists a more holistic and accurate picture of the patient’s dental condition. By allowing for precise measurements and detailed visualisations, they reduce the likelihood of errors and adjustments, as well as the time needed for diagnostics and treatment — thus requiring fewer visits.
4. Better efficiency
Often, the dentist is not the only one involved in a smile design treatment. They may also work with assistants, dental ceramists, dental labs and more depending on the decided course of treatment. DSD enables easy sharing of high-quality patient records between these involved parties, thus streamlining the smile design process and ensuring everyone is on the same page to deliver effective treatment.
5. Enables feedback
With DSD, dentists no longer have to rely on sketches or descriptions to illustrate what the final result may look like — they can just show the patient the 3D model. If patients want to explore different forms of treatment, the dentist can also simulate those changes on the digital model for patients to see in real-time. This helps improve patient understanding, encourages collaboration and ensures alignment from both sides.
What should you ask before undergoing digital smile design?
Prior to undergoing a DSD treatment, you will undergo a consultation process where the dentist will evaluate your dental health as well as your goals. They should be able to explain in detail what the treatment will involve, but here’s a checklist of questions for you to bear in mind:
· Is the dentist trained in and qualified to perform DSD?
Not every dentist is trained to use DSD technology. It’s a good idea to research if they have any official qualifications, or ask if they have experience with DSD. A qualified dentist may have case studies you can look at to see before and after pictures.
· Am I suitable for DSD?
While digital smile design is suitable for many people, it may not be an option for people with severe dental issues. Your dentist will be able to advise you if this is the case.
· What procedures will be involved?
Different procedures will affect not just the look of your teeth, but function as well. You may want to discuss the proposed procedures and their effects with your dentist to make sure you know how they will affect your life and what to expect.
· How long will the smile design process take?
Knowing the timeline and schedule helps you plan your time around expected visits and procedures, including recovery periods if necessary. You also have more visibility over whether the treatment is on track or not.
Transform your smile with Digital Smile Design
The advent of DSD has made the smile design process more transparent, personalised and effective than ever before, which can empower patients, improves their confidence and helps align their expectations when it comes to their ideal smile. Key to the success of DSD is ensuring that it is performed by a qualified and experienced dental professional.
If you are looking to improve both the aesthetics and oral function of your smile, DSD is a worthy consideration in order for you to achieve an outcome that is specifically tailored to your needs and features. Speak to a qualified DSD dentist today and start your journey towards the smile of your dreams.