What is Smile Design?
Smile design is the process of reshaping a person’s smile to suit their facial features, dental structure and aesthetic expectations. A personalised plan is drawn up, taking into account many factors such as tooth colour, shape, alignment and gums. Procedures such as cosmetic fillings, teeth whitening, laminate veneers and zirconium crowns can be applied together. The aim is to achieve a smile that is both natural and aesthetically balanced.
Smile Design
Contents
What is Smile Design?
Smile Design is a technique used in dentistry to achieve an aesthetic and functional smile. This technique examines factors such as tooth size, shape, position, colour and the spaces between them to create a smile design that meets the patient’s expectations. Smile Design is a technique that combines different fields such as dentistry, cosmetic dentistry and orthodontics, and is used to improve the aesthetic appearance and functional performance of teeth. Smile design, performed by a dentist, enables patients to achieve a more confident, powerful and beautiful smile.
In smile design, it is not only the teeth that matter, but also the aesthetics of the gums. First and foremost, if the patient does not require surgical or orthodontic treatment, gum health is restored and gum levels are adjusted. In smile design, the symmetry and fullness of the lips and their position in relation to the smile line are as important as the teeth and gums.
Smile design involves measurements and analyses carried out to achieve a healthy and beautiful smile. It is about designing the smile we ultimately want to achieve from the very beginning. Smile design is a process we undertake to ensure the aesthetic harmony of the patient’s teeth, mouth and face. For ease of understanding, it can be divided into six stages:
Identification and Analysis:
The dentist analyses the patient's current smile, expectations and goals.
Modelling and Simulation:
The patient's smile is first simulated using moulds or digital methods.
Planning and Approval:
The dentist creates a plan that will improve the patient's smile and meet their expectations. The patient sees images of this plan and its results and gives their approval.
Application:
The smile design plan is implemented for the patient. This stage may involve different methods, such as a surgical procedure or prosthesis application performed by the dentist.
Monitoring and Evaluation:
After smile design has been applied, the dentist assesses the patient's smile and makes adjustments where necessary.
Finishing:
The prostheses, once the fitting process is complete, are cemented into the mouth to finish the procedure.
The above steps are meticulously followed by the dentist to ensure patient satisfaction and safety, while also ensuring that patients achieve a smile that meets their expectations and goals.
What Materials Can Be Used in Smile Design?
In smile design, zirconium crowns, Emax crowns, and porcelain laminate veneers (porcelain laminates) are the primary methods we most frequently choose, enabling you to achieve a natural and aesthetically pleasing smile.
Zirconium Crown: A type of crown used in dentistry. Zirconium material is aesthetic and durable like porcelain, and it does not harm the gums or emit radiation. For this reason, zirconium crowns are preferred as an alternative that preserves dental aesthetics and health. In addition, zirconium crowns reduce the risk of tooth decay and tooth loss. With modern dental technology and design methods, zirconium crowns perfectly restore the natural appearance and function of the tooth. Zirconium crowns are one of the best options in terms of dental aesthetics, health and safety. Zirconium, a white, hard material, is an alloy used today in place of the grey metal in the substructure of bridges and prostheses. Zirconium coating allows us to achieve the desired result even on discoloured, darkened teeth. It is a material preferred for its tissue compatibility, durability, non-allergenic properties, and aesthetic appearance. As zirconium is a light-transmitting metal, it is the material of choice for creating an aesthetic smile design on front teeth. It is also suitable for use on back teeth due to its durability. It is resistant to chewing forces. It does not cause a metallic taste or bad odour in the mouth. It does not cause metal allergies. It does not cause darkening or bruising of the gums. It does not cause tooth sensitivity. Patients can consume hot and cold foods as they wish. It is not affected by colouring agents such as cigarettes, tea, and coffee. It retains its colour and shine for many years. For zirconium coating care, daily oral hygiene is sufficient. In addition to brushing teeth, flossing, and using mouthwash, we also recommend the use of an oral irrigator to our patients.
E-max Crown: A type of crown used in dentistry. E-max crowns are manufactured using lithium disilicate (LS2) material and offer an aesthetic and durable solution. This material does not harm the gums and does not emit radiation. E-max crowns are preferred as an alternative that best reflects the colour and texture of the tooth and is resistant to tooth decay. Furthermore, E-max crowns reduce the risk of tooth loss. Combined with modern dental technology and design methods, E-max crowns perfectly restore the natural appearance and function of the tooth. E-max crowns are one of the best options in terms of dental aesthetics, health, and safety.
Laminate Veneer: A treatment method used in dentistry as an aesthetic and contemporary solution. This treatment aims to improve the appearance and colour of teeth using a very thin and delicate porcelain covering. Laminate Veneer offers a solution to dental aesthetic problems such as tooth decay, gaps, uneven colours or shapes. This treatment is faster and more effective than ordinary teeth whitening or dental crown treatments. In addition, laminate veneers are durable and long-lasting and cause minimal damage to the tooth structure. Laminate veneers are one of the best options for people who want to permanently improve their dental aesthetics. They are thin porcelain sheets prepared by removing a minimal amount of material from only the front surface of the teeth and bonded to the teeth. These sheets, which are very thin (0.3-0.5 mm thick), are specially prepared in the desired colour, size and shape and bonded to the front surface of the tooth. Laminate veneers are a procedure that allows us to change the shape, structure, colour, etc. of teeth with a more minimal touch to the tooth compared to crowns. Despite being very thin, they are durable enough to remain in the mouth for many years. Although they are not a suitable treatment for every patient, they can provide excellent aesthetic and functional results in appropriate cases. The design process and showing it to you in your mouth takes an average of two sessions. During the first session, your records are taken. In the second session, the design is tried in your mouth using an application we call a ‘mock-up’. Once a decision is made on the design, the procedures begin. Subsequent sessions vary depending on the condition of your teeth and the procedures to be performed.
How Many Sessions Does Smile Design Take? What Are the Stages?
It is important for the patient and the dentist to be in harmony during this process. Unfortunately, a good result cannot be expected with a dentist who does not understand the patient or a patient who cannot express themselves. An experienced dentist should guide the patient by asking questions and showing examples, and should be able to understand what kind of smile the patient envisions at this stage.
Following mutual discussions, intraoral photographs and facial photographs are taken. Intraoral measurements are taken. A panoramic X-ray is taken and the necessary treatments are discussed.
The smile design is prepared by taking into account the colour, size and shape of the teeth, the position of the lips, the definition of the smile line, the amount of pink gum tissue visible, the shape of the face and even the person’s character traits. Once the design is ready in the model, it is applied to the mouth using a silicone template.
The design is tested in the mouth to determine the most suitable tooth length and shape for the face. Any necessary lengthening, shortening, or alterations required to achieve the ideal smile are decided at this stage. Although the focus is on aesthetics, oral health takes priority. Therefore, the health of the teeth and gums must first be checked, and any necessary treatments carried out. The preparatory work is the most important part of the process to ensure that the prosthesis can be used healthily for many years. At this stage, treatments such as fillings, root canal treatment, extractions, etc., are performed to ensure that the foundation is strong and healthy. If deemed necessary, gum levelling and gum health treatments are performed to achieve pink aesthetics. Once the treatment stages are complete, the selected aesthetic materials are applied to the teeth.
Porcelain laminate veneers, e-max crowns or zirconium crowns are restorative materials that we frequently choose today. With these thin and highly light-transmitting materials, it is possible to achieve bright, sparkling teeth that are also very close to natural teeth. When done correctly and with good care, they can remain healthy in the mouth for many years.
Bu işlemlerin uygulama süresi ortalama 1-2 haftadır.
Nowadays, a perfect smile creates a positive impression on people. The shape, colour and quality of our teeth reflect our health and self-confidence to those around us. If you are unhappy with your smile when you look in the mirror, you can achieve the smile you dream of by consulting your dentist.
Smile design is a comprehensive treatment protocol that must be applied with great care from start to finish. The key points to consider when performing smile design can be summarised as follows:
Choosing a dentist: Smile design requires expertise, so choosing the right dentist is very important.
Patient expectations: The dentist should determine the patient’s expectations and goals and create an appropriate plan to meet them.
Dental health: During smile design, maintaining and improving oral and dental health is a priority.
Durability: The result achieved with smile design must be long-lasting and permanent.
Quality standards: Smile design should be carried out by a qualified dentist in accordance with quality standards.
Aesthetic outcome: The result achieved through smile design should meet the patient’s aesthetic expectations.
Follow-up and care: Follow-up and care after smile design is important for long-term preservation of results and ongoing health.
What are the main treatments used in smile design?
Empress E-Max Veneers - Full Ceramic Veneers
Terms such as full porcelain, full ceramic, full porcelain, Empress, and Emax actually represent the same thing. Among aesthetic dentistry applications, it is the most preferred treatment option alongside laminate veneers and zirconium applications. As indicated by their names, these veneers are made from a single type of material, namely entirely porcelain. As mentioned for zirconium, there is no underlying layer. The base is a crystal-structured ceramic core, reinforced by high-pressure compression. Colour transitions and aesthetics are completed by layering glass ceramic on top.
These veneers offer maximum light transmission and a fully crystallised structure, achieving results closest to natural teeth. They are preferred as the most natural tooth veneers in situations where colour matching is critical, such as single tooth restorations in the anterior region, and where aesthetic concerns and expectations are high. The level of transparency and layer colours can be selected in detail. They are not preferred in cases of missing teeth as they will not provide sufficient resistance. Whether or not they are preferred in the large molar region is evaluated according to the person’s jaw relationship, parafunctional habits, and chewing analysis. Full porcelain veneers are more expensive than others due to the increased cost and precision required for the procedure from the perspective of the dentist and technician.
Zirconium Crowns
Dental crowns are used to cover a tooth or dental implant. Dentists often use crowns to support broken, weak, or misshapen teeth. Dental crowns can also be used to cover teeth that are severely worn or discoloured. They may also be used in conjunction with bridges to reinforce multiple teeth. When it comes to the materials used to make crowns, there are several options, including ceramic and metal. Another option is zirconium veneers. Although zirconium crowns are classified as a type of ceramic crown, they are made from zirconium dioxide, an extremely durable type of metal related to titanium.
A zirconium crown is a dental restoration option used in dentistry. Zirconium is a white, durable and strong material used to improve the appearance and strength of the tooth structure. The crown covers the entire upper part of the tooth, closing cavities or cracks and improving the tooth’s strength and natural appearance.
In classic metal-supported crowns and the substructure of bridge prostheses, the grey metal traditionally used has increasingly been replaced by a white alloy called zirconium. Zirconium is extremely durable and, unlike metals, resistant to corrosion, so it has a wide range of applications in dentistry beyond crowns and bridges.
Zirconium teeth are a restoration material used in dentistry. They are made from zirconium oxide material and are used to replace damaged, decayed or diseased parts of teeth. Due to their durability, strength and aesthetic appearance, they are used as an alternative to traditional metal and porcelain dental crowns, especially on the front teeth. Zirconium is a natural material that is highly resistant, does not cause allergic reactions, maintains colour integrity, and eliminates hot-cold sensitivity. It has been frequently used in aesthetic and prosthetic treatments in recent years. Zirconium, a highly durable and aesthetic material, is used to cover tooth surfaces, and this process is called zirconium dental veneering. Also known as crowns, zirconium dental veneers are quite popular as they enable aesthetic prosthetic treatments. Being a translucent and durable material, zirconium, combined with the advantage of its white colour, guarantees white teeth and an aesthetic smile as a result of decayed tooth restoration.
What is the Difference Between Full Ceramic and Zirconium?
Both options are highly biocompatible treatments that are safely used in cosmetic dentistry. These frequently used methods enable the achievement of natural-looking teeth with high aesthetic value. Their common feature is that they do not contain any metal-like materials that could cause aesthetic problems and are produced using advanced systems to achieve the desired results. Zirconium veneers differ from full ceramic veneers in terms of their underlying structure and are preferred when high resistance is expected in addition to aesthetics. In other words, if you have a toothless gap and a bridge is planned, a full ceramic bridge cannot be made, but zirconium may be preferred. Similarly, all-ceramic crowns should be avoided in cases where high forces are exerted on the molars and there is a tendency to clench the teeth. In the front teeth, however, all-ceramic crowns are preferred if there is no tooth loss.
What is Pink Aesthetics (Gum Aesthetics)?
Aesthetic procedures on the gums are referred to as pink aesthetics. Certain elements are used to define dental aesthetics. These elements include gum colour and the level of the gum in relation to the tooth. For the gums to have a healthy appearance, they must be a light pink colour. In addition, gum tissue should not have a pitted or shiny appearance and should be tightly attached to the tooth or bone, which requires aesthetic treatment. The goal of this type of aesthetic treatment is to achieve a flawless smile. As a result of this aesthetic treatment, the gums are restored to a healthy state, creating aesthetically pleasing smiles.
What are the factors that necessitate gum aesthetics?
The factors that led to the implementation of this aesthetic are as follows:
- Excessive visibility of the gums
- One gum being lower than the other
- Gum recession
- Tooth elongation
- Spacing between teeth are among the reasons that may require gum aesthetics treatments.
Do Laminate and E-max Crowns Break?
Once permanently bonded, this structure cannot be removed in one piece. It can be thought of as all the crystals in its internal structure forming separate connections to the tooth. Any impact that could pose a risk to natural teeth, such as falling and hitting the teeth, suddenly biting into an olive pit, or using a fork or stone, also poses a risk to all teeth and all veneers, including Empress porcelain, and can cause them to break. Since restorations are done individually, in such a case, the remaining pieces of the broken Empress must be removed and a new tooth applied.
How long does Empress veneering take?
Considering that the gums and teeth are completely healthy, the process takes around 30 minutes for a single tooth, including taking measurements, retraction and temporary restoration. After the first session, the trial stages continue in much shorter sessions. It is cemented to the tooth using special bonding systems. The total duration can range from 3 to 10 days. The number of teeth treated increases the required time. Once Empress is bonded, it cannot be removed in one piece. If necessary, it is removed by breaking it into pieces. The tooth is not damaged during this process.
What are the prices for laminate, full porcelain, full ceramic, and Empress teeth?
Full ceramic Empress crown prices vary depending on the number of teeth to be treated, the material used, and any other dental treatments required. The current TDB Guide Price List for Empress crown prices in Istanbul can provide an idea. Empress crowns, one of the most aesthetic dental treatment options, are more expensive than other types of crowns. Detailed information about Empress dental crown prices requires a thorough analysis and planning by a dentist who performs this treatment option.
Is it absolutely necessary to have dental veneers fitted for smile design?
Of course, it cannot be said that zirconium and similar coatings are necessary for every patient. The zirconium coating technique is preferred for patients with problems related to tooth structure or tooth colour. This makes it possible for teeth to appear straighter and whiter, and as a result, this appearance is reflected in the smile. Many patients who were reluctant to smile due to the poor appearance of their teeth can now smile comfortably in any setting after this treatment.
Is Face Shape Important in Smile Design?
The appearance of our face and teeth are inseparable. Therefore, the shape and position of the face are of great importance when designing a smile. Smile designs that complement the shape of the face and do not create an artificial appearance facilitate a more natural look. In other words, the teeth and face must be in harmony. The arrangement of the lips and teeth are among the factors that affect the face. By taking these factors into account and applying treatment appropriate to the face, it is possible to achieve an aesthetically pleasing appearance. Oval teeth are generally preferred for individuals and women with round faces. For individuals with angular and pointed faces, angular teeth are preferred over oval teeth. The shape of the face is important, and smile designs vary according to the shape of the face.
How many days does it take to prepare a digital smile design?
Smile designs are created to find the smile that best suits your face type. These procedures are usually designed and presented to the individual within a maximum of 5 days. The data collected during the first session is typically evaluated. Based on the evaluated data, the specialist dentist selects the most appropriate smile. Before the smile design is created, the individual’s facial features are carefully examined. A smile that is appropriate for the facial features and jaw structure is designed. The designed models are checked inside the person’s mouth. If they are suitable, the second session stage is proceeded to. These procedures usually do not take a long time. In particular, the smile design is selected within 1 week. Trials and some negative factors may cause the duration to be extended.
Can I make changes to my digital smile design?
Digital smile designs are customised for each individual and presented to the patient after undergoing specific digital stages. Trials are conducted to obtain the patient’s opinion. During these trials, the patient can convey to the dentist any aspects they dislike and what they would like to change. These ideas are noted during the session. Minor changes can be made immediately. However, some major changes take time. In cases where the length of the teeth needs to be increased or decreased, the patient is given a second session. By the second session, any aspects of the smile design that were not liked will have been corrected. The revised smile design is tried on the patient and ideas are exchanged again. In other words, it is possible to make changes to the smile designs. To do this, it is necessary to maintain communication with the dentist.
When Can Smile Design Be Performed?
– It can be used to correct stained or discoloured teeth.
– It can be considered alongside orthodontic options for correcting crooked teeth.
– It can be used in the treatment of broken teeth.
– It is used in the fabrication of porcelain laminate veneers.
What is a Hollywood Smile?
‘Hollywood Smile’ is an English term. This concept emerged when Hollywood stars had white materials bonded to their teeth to make their smiles appear fuller and more aesthetically pleasing in films. Over the years, numerous studies were conducted and various materials and techniques were developed to enable everyone to achieve this smile. The main principles of this concept, which is similar to dental aesthetics, are as follows:
- During smiling, the lips should open symmetrically, the front two teeth should be visible, and the edge of the first premolar should be visible.
- During a smile, there should be no darkness between the cheek and the side teeth, which we call the ‘buccal corridor’. In other words, in addition to the aesthetics of the front teeth, the side teeth should be visible during a smile, and there should be no dark space between the cheek and the teeth. A wide smile line is important for a ‘Hollywood Smile’.
- The upper gum should be visible by 1-2 mm. Previously, it was desired that the gum not be visible, but recent studies have determined that 1-2 mm of gum visibility creates a positive effect in dental aesthetics.
- For a Hollywood smile, generally a minimum of 10 teeth in the upper and lower jaws are treated, and brighter white colours are preferred.
- This design is created considering characteristics such as age, gender, lip shape, and facial form. The ultimate goal is for the patient to have a perfect smile.
- This smile is achieved through procedures such as porcelain laminate veneers, Emax crowns, and zirconium crowns.
Will My Gum Problems Be Resolved with Smile Aesthetics?
Gum recession is the pulling back of the gum tissue, exposing the root surface, due to environmental and genetic factors. Today, there are many treatments available to restore the gum tissue to its healthy structure and original form. To resolve and treat the problem, it is first necessary to determine the cause. Gum recession can occur even at a young age due to genetic causes. When a denture is made to fit the gums, the gums are not biologically disturbed and maintain a healthy, bleeding-free relationship with the denture for many years. However, dentures that are ill-fitting and do not respect the gums inevitably lead to gum bleeding, bruising, swelling and then gum recession. The denture must be replaced.
What is Pink Aesthetics?
When smiling, the level and symmetry of the gums are just as important as the appearance of the teeth. For an aesthetic appearance or smile, it may not be sufficient for the teeth to be straight and white alone. The gums must also be compatible with the teeth.
How many sessions does smile design take?
Digital smile design is the process of determining your ideal smile using digital methods and displaying it on screen. Completed in two sessions, this design is shown to you by being tried out in your mouth. If changes need to be made to the digital smile design, or if desired, the second session is repeated. Once the design is approved by the patient, the necessary procedures are commenced.
Does the process begin immediately once treatment is approved?
Your dentist will explain in detail what procedures need to be performed on your existing teeth to achieve the ideal smile design, including any alternatives. The ideal smile design is usually achieved through the application of Cosmetic Dentistry, Orthodontics, Dental Implants and Gum Aesthetics, either alone or in combination. Depending on the treatment procedure you agree to, your dentist will schedule a new appointment to begin your treatment. All aesthetic treatments to be performed are recorded in the existing design, and everything is planned according to this digital design.
Who is a suitable candidate for smile design?
Firstly, it should be noted that this treatment cannot be performed during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Apart from this, anyone who wishes to undergo this treatment is a suitable candidate. Those who feel discomfort due to their smile are particularly suitable candidates.
Does Smile Design Treatment Damage Teeth?
At our clinic, which embraces the principle of ‘Primum Non Nocere’ or ‘First, do no harm,’ our aim is to ensure that our patients receive maximum benefit while providing them with a service. Cutting teeth excessively to create an aesthetic smile is not the right approach. A minimally invasive concept should be the basis for smile design. Correctly selected procedures prevent damage to the teeth. For this purpose, smile design is performed, and a model is created using wax-up and mock-up techniques. Only the necessary amount of cutting is performed based on this model. This prevents excessive cutting of tooth tissue. In some cases, such as excessive crowding, orthodontics is performed first to bring the teeth into their correct positions, thus preventing excessive tooth cutting.
Is Cosmetic Dentistry a Painful Procedure?
The procedures are performed under local anaesthesia. No pain or discomfort is felt. Patient comfort is maximised during the sessions.
How Should I Choose My Dentist?
When choosing a dentist, it is advisable to first look at their professional experience, patient references, website, and social media accounts to gain preliminary information. It is necessary to ensure that the dentist has received the necessary training, gained experience, and applies their acquired experience in a contemporary manner. Attention should be paid to choosing a dentist who is recommended by patients, keeps up with developments in their field, and can communicate effectively with patients. Nowadays, thanks to the internet, it is possible to access pages such as Google reviews when choosing a dentist. It is recommended that you research your dentist using such sources. Dentistry is advancing technologically every day, with new devices and materials being produced every year. Therefore, you should ensure that the clinic you choose has adequate equipment and technology. The devices and materials used in the dental profession significantly determine the quality of the work. It is highly unlikely to achieve success by using the same tools and materials for years without keeping up with technological developments and without adding anything to one’s professional skills.
What Factors Affect Dental Treatment Costs? Is Dental Treatment Expensive?
Prices at our clinic are determined based on the materials used and the prices set by the Turkish Dental Association. They vary depending on the procedure to be performed and the materials to be used. As many of the materials used are sourced from abroad, the exchange rate also affects the fees charged. We take care to ensure that the materials used are world-renowned and proven to be reliable so that patients can receive world-class treatment. Poor-quality procedures will cause problems in a short time and will result in additional costs if they have to be redone. At Risusdent, we embrace and implement the philosophy of performing the treatment correctly the first time, ensuring maximum patient satisfaction and avoiding any problems for both the patient and ourselves due to repeat procedures. Patient satisfaction is our top priority. We strive to assist our patients with pricing and payment for the procedures required to ensure they receive healthy and ideal treatment.
Is Smile Design Treatment Permanent? Is It Necessary to Have It Done Again?
The procedure is permanent, depending on the treatments applied during smile design. If treatments such as laminate veneers or zirconium have been applied, no discolouration or deterioration will be seen in these teeth. However, teeth that have undergone whitening may experience colour changes depending on the individual’s dietary habits. In such cases, the whitening procedure may need to be repeated.
What steps should be taken for patients coming from abroad?
We aim to provide the best and fastest service for our international patients with the help of our English and German-speaking doctors and team. The smile aesthetics process usually takes about one week. For treatments such as implants, our patients need to visit us several times. Before treatment, they can obtain information about the procedures, ask questions, and create a preliminary treatment plan if they send the necessary documents for diagnosis, such as panoramic X-rays. If requested, online face-to-face consultations can be arranged. After treatment, they can contact us by phone, email or text message. As our implant patients have access to implant brands used worldwide, they can find a dentist in their own country for any problems they may experience after treatment.