Editorial update:
How to Assess a Smile Design Treatment Plan
Questions about treatment reasons, alternatives, irreversible steps, maintenance and expectations in a smile design plan.
In this article 08
When assessing a smile design plan, ask why each procedure is proposed. Alternatives, tooth-tissue removal, maintenance and future replacement needs should be clear. A simulation or another person’s result cannot promise your outcome.
What Is Smile Design?
Smile design is the creation of a personalised, aesthetic smile by evaluating the teeth, gums, and lip structure together as a whole.
The aim is:
- A natural appearance
- Harmony with the face
- Aesthetics and symmetry
- Functional, healthy teeth
Features of a Well-Planned Smile Design
A well-planned smile design should have the following features:
1. It Should Be in Harmony With the Face
Smile design isn’t planned based on the teeth alone.
Things to take into account:
- Face shape
- Jaw structure
- Lip shape
- Smile line
No matter how white they are, teeth that don’t match the face look artificial.
2. It Should Look Natural
A common mistake is choosing “excessively white, uniform teeth.”
In a natural smile:
- The teeth are not all exactly the same length
- Colour tones have subtle gradations
- Slight asymmetry can even add to the naturalness
The human eye often finds what looks “natural” more attractive than what looks flawless.
3. Tooth Proportions Should Be Correct
The golden ratio is an important criterion in smile design.
Balanced tooth proportions:
- The front teeth should stand out
- The side teeth should gradually get smaller
- A balance between tooth length and width should be achieved
4. Gum Harmony Should Be Present
Gum appearance accounts for half of the overall aesthetic.
Ideally:
- The gums should be symmetrical
- Excess gum should not be visible
- The gumline should be balanced
Gum contouring procedures can be carried out if needed.
5. It Should Be in Harmony With the Lips
In smile design, the lips act as an important frame.
Points to consider:
- How much of the teeth show when smiling
- The line of the upper lip
- The harmony between the lower lip and the teeth
6. It Should Be Personalised
A well-planned smile design:
- Is not a copy
- Is not standardised
- Is not applied the same way to everyone
Planning is done based on the individual:
- Age
- Gender
- Facial features
- Personal expectations
Methods Used in Smile Design
A single procedure is not usually used in smile design. Generally, multiple applications are used together:
- Teeth whitening
- Bonding
- Laminate veneers
- Zirconia crowns
- Orthodontic treatment
Which method is used is determined entirely on an individual basis.
The Most Common Mistakes
Unsuccessful results in smile design are usually caused by:
- Choosing excessively white teeth
- A tooth shape that doesn’t match the face
- Teeth being made too large
- Applying the same design to everyone
These mistakes result in a “done” look.
How Does the Smile Design Process Proceed?
A well-run process generally proceeds as follows:
- Photo and video analysis
- Digital smile design (DSD)
- Measurement and planning
- Mock-up (temporary trial)
- Final application
This process allows the patient to see the result in advance.
Who Is Smile Design Suitable For?
- Those who are unhappy with their smile
- Those with issues of colour, shape, or alignment in their teeth
- Those who want a more aesthetic, youthful appearance
- Those with gaps or crowding between their teeth
Related treatment and assessment
This information does not replace an individual assessment. At your appointment, explain when symptoms began and share details of medicines and previous treatment.