Digital Smile Design at Taylors Lakes, Keilor, & Sydenham
See the Plan, Then Decide
Cosmetic treatment is a significant commitment, and most patients want some idea of where it is heading before they agree to it. Digital Smile Design uses photographs, scans, and software to map a proposed treatment outcome onto your existing teeth, giving you a digital preview you can review at the consultation.
A Planning Process, Not a Treatment
Digital Smile Design (DSD) is not a treatment in itself. It is a planning process that supports treatments such as veneers, crowns, orthodontics, or combinations of cosmetic and restorative work.
The process uses high-resolution photographs of your face and teeth, a digital scan of your bite, and DSD software to model how proposed changes would interact with your facial proportions, lip line, and bite.
The result is a visual preview of the planned outcome, with the underlying treatment plan mapped out in detail before any work begins.
Outcomes vary based on the treatment performed, the materials chosen, and individual factors. The DSD preview is a planning tool, not a guaranteed final result.
Is Digital Smile Design Useful for You?
At Taylors Lakes Dental House, we believe every patient deserves individual attention. DSD is particularly useful in the situations below, though every cosmetic case benefits from some level of digital planning.
How a DSD Consultation Works
Whilst the specifics vary based on the treatment being planned, here is what you can typically expect from the DSD process.
Initial Consultation
We discuss what you would like to change about your smile, examine your teeth and gums, and confirm whether DSD is appropriate for your situation. (1 visit, approximately 45 to 60 minutes)
Photography and Scanning
A series of high-resolution photographs are taken of your face, smile, and teeth from multiple angles. A digital scan captures your teeth and bite in 3D. (Same visit or a follow-up, approximately 30 to 45 minutes)
Digital Design
Using DSD software, the proposed changes are designed and mapped onto your photographs. Shape, length, contour, and shade are all considered against your facial proportions and lip line.
Design Review
You see the digital preview at a follow-up appointment. We walk through the planned outcome together, discuss what you like, what you would change, and adjust the design until you are satisfied. (1 visit, approximately 60 minutes)
Treatment Planning
Once the design is approved, the underlying treatment plan is finalised, including procedures, materials, timeline, and cost. You see the full plan before committing to any work.
Treatment Begins
The agreed treatment is carried out in the sequence planned during the DSD process. The digital design guides each step. (Variable, depending on the treatment)
Initial Consultation
We discuss what you would like to change about your smile, examine your teeth and gums, and confirm whether DSD is appropriate for your situation. (1 visit, approximately 45 to 60 minutes)
Photography and Scanning
A series of high-resolution photographs are taken of your face, smile, and teeth from multiple angles. A digital scan captures your teeth and bite in 3D. (Same visit or a follow-up, approximately 30 to 45 minutes)
Digital Design
Using DSD software, the proposed changes are designed and mapped onto your photographs. Shape, length, contour, and shade are all considered against your facial proportions and lip line.
Design Review
You see the digital preview at a follow-up appointment. We walk through the planned outcome together, discuss what you like, what you would change, and adjust the design until you are satisfied. (1 visit, approximately 60 minutes)
Treatment Planning
Once the design is approved, the underlying treatment plan is finalised, including procedures, materials, timeline, and cost. You see the full plan before committing to any work.
Treatment Begins
The agreed treatment is carried out in the sequence planned during the DSD process. The digital design guides each step. (Variable, depending on the treatment)
Considerations
DSD is a planning tool with practical considerations rather than clinical risks.
Important considerations include:
- The digital preview is a planned outcome, not a guarantee. The final result depends on the treatment, the materials, and individual factors
- Some adjustments are still made during treatment as the work progresses
- DSD does not replace the consent and risk discussion for each underlying treatment, such as veneers, crowns, or orthodontics
- Treatments enabled by the plan, such as veneer preparation, are typically permanent. The same considerations apply as for any cosmetic treatment
- DSD adds a planning stage to the treatment timeline. Most patients consider this worth the additional time
- DSD is generally an upfront investment in the planning phase, which is then included in the overall treatment cost
This procedure carries risks. Please consult with a registered health practitioner to discuss all potential risks, benefits, and alternatives before proceeding.
Invest in Your Oral Health
Quality dental care is an investment in your long-term health and wellbeing. Download our comprehensive price guide today.
Any questions?
Is Digital Smile Design a treatment, or part of one?
DSD is a planning process that supports treatments such as veneers, crowns, orthodontics, and combinations of cosmetic and restorative work. The digital design itself does not change your teeth. It is the planning stage that informs and guides the actual treatment that follows.
Does the final result always match the digital preview?
The preview is a planned outcome, not a guarantee. Most patients find the final result closely resembles the design, but adjustments are sometimes made during treatment as the work progresses. Individual factors, materials, and clinical considerations all influence the final outcome.
Do I have to commit to treatment after the DSD consultation?
No. The point of DSD is to help you make an informed decision, including the decision not to proceed. If the preview does not match what you are hoping for, or the underlying treatment plan does not suit your situation, you are free to step back. The design is yours to consider.
Making Your Smile Affordable
We offer flexible payment plans to suit your budget. Get the dental care you need, when you need it.
Our Promise To You
Same day emergency dental guarantee*
A caring, gentle approach at every appointment
5 Years warranty on major dentistry*
Advanced technology for your comfort
Ready to See Your Smile Designed?
The first step is a proper consultation, where we can discuss what you would like to change and explain whether Digital Smile Design is the right starting point. Get in touch with our Taylors Lakes team to book a time.
Disclaimer: The material posted is for informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Results vary with each patient. Any dental procedure carries risks and benefits. If you have any specific questions about any dental and/or medical matter, you should consult your dentist, physician or other professional healthcare providers.
Let’s chat.
Take the first step today. Fill out the form and we will contact you to arrange your consultation.
