Today, most dental procedures and restorative services performed on patients across the globe are the result of injury, illness, or other issues that may impact their oral health and their smile. However, not all procedures offer the same results. Digital Smile Design (DSD) has exemplified the growing role of technology within the world or dentistry. DSD is a unique dental treatment planning tool that strengthens a dentist’s vision, enhances predictability, and improves communication between a dentist and their patients.
What Exactly Is Digital Smile Design?
DSD is a treatment plan that is completely based on a thorough analysis of the patient’s dental and facial proportions. Through the use of videos, photographs, and temporary mock-ups, DSD providers can get a better sense of the relationship between the lips, gums, and teeth, as well as how they work together to create the patient’s smile.
DSD providers also take into consideration the emotional needs of the patient and how they react in certain situations. DSD providers also have artistic vision, which is necessary to create beautiful smiles, as well as assessing and adjusting the processes needed to create the best possible experience.
The DSD Process
Step 1: Pre-Evaluation
When you make the decision to learn more about DSD, the first step in the process is finding a provider near you. From there, you’ll meet with that provider and go through the benefits of this treatment option.
Step 2: Scanning
If you choose to move forward, your dental provider will take three-dimensional photos and videos of every angle of your mouth. This digital scan is done with an intraoral scanner such as the iTero, and the data is imported into the DSD software.
Step 3: Post Evaluation
After the data is imported into the software, your dental provider will look at the digital library of various forms and shapes that can be placed over the tops of your teeth in the images. This gives you a glimpse into what you can expect from the treatment and gives the dental provider what is needed to create a physical model. The images and videos help the lab create a more realistic model of your teeth.
You will be heavily involved in the entire process from start to finish. It’s important for you to communicate your wants and needs to your dental smile designer. You’ll also have the opportunity to approve the three-dimensional model and mock-up images of what your smile will look like after the treatment is complete. You’re in charge when it comes to DSD.
If you live in the St. Catherines/ Niagara Falls area, and DSD sounds right for you, contact Dr. Vlahos to set up a treatment plan that is unique to your dental needs and will give you the smile you deserve.