While patients often seek improvement to their smile for aesthetic purposes, better smiles can also be important for teeth function and improved overall oral health. To achieve these, there may be various cosmetic dental procedures involved, depending on the condition of a patient’s teeth. Collectively, this is known as smile design dentistry.
Experienced dental professionals design smiles by harmonising facial composition the structure of the teeth and gums. This is combined with modern technology involving digital smile design.
Principles of Smile Design
When designing a patient’s smile, the dentist will first consider how the smile fits in with the facial features in a balanced and natural way. The dentist may look at the gum health, as well as the colour, size, shape and positions of individual teeth and how both these factors affect the overall balance of the smile when the jaw opens and closes.
Types of Procedures in Smile Design
The smile design process begins with a detailed consultation and examination of your teeth. You will also have radiographs and scans of your teeth taken. Subsequently, the dentist will create a personalised smile design treatment for you. This may include digitally mapping the smile on your face so you can envision the possible outcome.
The dentist will also explain any cosmetic dental procedures recommended to create your new smile. These procedures are intended to achieve objectives such as:
Teeth Straightening
If your teeth are crooked, crowded or have gaps between them, your smile design dentist may recommend orthodontic treatments such as braces and Invisalign, which move your teeth into the proper positions for a straighter smile.
Teeth Bonding
Minor teeth chips and cracks may be addressed by dental bonding, which involves bonding a tooth-coloured resin onto the teeth and shaping them for a natural look.
In some cases, porcelain veneers may be bonded to the tooth for long-term protection. For significant teeth decay or breakage, porcelain crowns may be needed to protect the teeth and prevent further deterioration of teeth structure and function.
Teeth Replacement
Dental implants, which are permanent tooth replacements inserted directly into the jawbone for improved stability and function, may be indicated for your smile design.
If you have lost most or all of your teeth, you may be recommended All-on-4 dental implants which may help restore chewing function and aesthetics.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth can be stained due to aging or lifestyle habits such as smoking and drinking coffee. You may be recommended teeth whitening procedures as part of your smile design treatment. These can either be done by the dentist at the office or at home using custom-made whitening kits.
Gum Contouring
Gums may also have a significant impact on your smile. This may involve reshaping the gum lines to reveal more of the teeth, especially in cases of short teeth or ‘gummy’ smiles.
Experience Modern Smile Design at Geelong West Dental
The process of smile design is unique to everyone due to different facial features and oral health. It is important to consult a smile design dental professional before undergoing treatment to understand what would work best for your smile.
Looking to begin your smile design journey? At Geelong West Dental, our smile design dentists are ready to help guide you through the process. We are experts in digital smile design and have both the technology and the expertise to support you in achieving your smile objectives. Contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation with our dental professionals.