Cosmetic dental treatment starts with an individual assessment and a discussion of your concerns, health, treatment options and expectations.
With over 25 years of experience and 23,000 handcrafted porcelain veneers completed in our in-house laboratory, our group uses clinical records and models to support treatment planning. These figures do not predict an individual treatment outcome.
Digital smile design is one part of the planning discussion at our Canberra practice. Clinical records help the dentist assess suitable options.
A preview cannot establish suitability or show exactly how treatment will turn out. Ask about risks, limitations, alternatives and the option of no treatment before deciding whether to proceed.
How Digital Smile Design Actually Works
Clinical photographs form part of the records used to assess your teeth, gums, bite and proposed treatment.
Planning records and models can be used to discuss tooth shape, length and proportions. They do not predict or guarantee the final appearance.
Tell your dentist about your preferences and concerns. Your dentist can explain what may be suitable and what limitations apply to your case.
The dentist and laboratory use the treatment plan when preparing restorations. The final appearance and outcome depend on the individual case.
Using Records in the Planning Discussion
Digital smile design can support discussion between you and your dentist. It does not replace a clinical examination or informed consent.
When several teeth are involved, the dentist assesses how proposed restorations relate to the surrounding teeth and bite.
Your dentist can discuss tooth proportions and shade, including practical limitations and what may be achievable in your circumstances.
Clinical records can support communication with the laboratory. Adjustments, further appointments or changes to the plan may be needed.
If you feel anxious about treatment, discuss this with your dentist. A planning image does not remove the risks or uncertainty of treatment.
Discussing Options and Limitations
Digital smile design may be used to discuss proposed changes. A displayed image should not be treated as a prediction of your result.
Ask about suitable alternatives, including whether to delay treatment or have no treatment.
Planning considers the individual teeth, gums and bite. Appearance is one part of that assessment.
Clinical records and models help the dentist assess suitable treatment options and discuss a proposed plan. The final appearance and outcome depend on the individual case.
How This Fits Into Your Treatment Timeline
Digital smile design happens early in the process, usually during your initial consultation or planning phase. At our Canberra practice, we include this as part of our comprehensive assessment for people considering cosmetic treatment. There’s no separate charge for the digital design when you proceed with treatment.
After assessment, your dentist will explain the proposed plan and answer questions. You can take time to consider the information before deciding whether to proceed.
Once the design is finalised, your treatment proceeds according to the standard process for your specific procedure. For porcelain veneers, this typically involves tooth preparation, temporary veneers, and final placement over 2 to 3 weeks. The digital design guides everything, but we remain flexible throughout.
Tell your dentist about any concerns with temporary restorations. Adjustments may be needed, and temporary restorations do not guarantee the final appearance.
Clinical and Laboratory Planning
Digital smile design forms part of planning. A dentist remains responsible for assessing treatment suitability and discussing risks, limitations and alternatives.
Our in-house laboratory prepares porcelain restorations according to the treatment plan. Individual circumstances affect their appearance and function.
Clinical and laboratory planning do not remove uncertainty. Restorations may need adjustment, maintenance, repair or replacement.
Having our laboratory in-house allows communication between the dentist and ceramists about the treatment plan and any requested adjustments.
Getting the Most Out of Your Digital Design Consultation
At your consultation, explain your concerns and preferences. Your dentist can discuss whether the options you are considering are suitable for your oral health.
Ask what the proposed treatment involves, what may go wrong, what recovery may involve and what alternatives are available.
You can take time to consider the proposed plan. Clinical records or models do not commit you to treatment.
Planning More Than One Treatment
When multiple teeth or treatments are involved, planning includes their relationship to your existing teeth and bite.
Older restorations and previous treatment need individual assessment before further treatment is planned.
If previous treatment did not meet your expectations, discuss this with your dentist. Further treatment also has risks and limitations.
Before deciding, review the proposed treatment and its limitations. Read about treatment risks, recovery and alternatives.
Every smile is unique, and these guidelines may not apply to your specific circumstances. Our complimentary consultations provide personalised recommendations based on your individual needs and goals.
To discuss digital smile design with our experienced team, book online at any of our 8 Sydney and Canberra locations.