Smile Design

Planning the shape, colour and alignment of the teeth as a whole, taking the face, lip line and tooth proportions into account.

Duration

1 to 4 weeks depending on the plan

Anaesthesia

Local, depending on the procedure

Preview

Digital design and in-mouth trial

Longevity

10 to 20 years depending on method

What is smile design?

Smile design is not a single procedure but a planning approach. The shape of the face, the position of the lips when smiling, how much gum shows and the proportions of the teeth are all assessed. Whitening, bonding, porcelain veneers, zirconia crowns, gum reshaping or orthodontics are then combined as needed.

Which problems does it address?

• Front teeth that differ in colour, shape or length
• Gapped, crowded or worn teeth
• Too much gum showing when smiling
• Old fillings and crowns that no longer match

How does the process work?

Analysis

Photographs, a digital intraoral scan and X-rays are taken. Facial and smile measurements are recorded.

Digital design and trial

The new smile is designed on a computer. A model is tried in the mouth with a temporary material; anything you dislike is changed at this stage. The teeth have not yet been touched.

Treatment

Procedures follow the approved plan in order: gum and orthodontic corrections first, then whitening, and finally porcelain and composite work.

Review

After a week or two the bite and gum response are checked.

Principles for a natural result

In good smile design the teeth are not stark white or identical; a shade suited to your age and face is chosen and small asymmetries are kept. Working with the least possible tooth reduction protects the teeth in the long run. At a university hospital the prosthodontics, periodontology and orthodontics departments work together on one plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Medically reviewed by

Prof. Dr. İbrahim Bülent ŞERMETProsthodontics