Aesthetic Dentistry:
One of the first concepts that comes to mind when discussing aesthetic dentistry is “smile design.” Smile design is the process of enhancing teeth and gums that have an aesthetically unpleasing appearance for various reasons, considering the patient’s facial shape and needs to achieve as natural and beautiful a look as possible. This multidisciplinary approach involves the application of multiple procedures.
Since each patient’s aesthetic needs are different, the procedures performed are customized for each individual. Factors such as the patient’s facial features, gender, age, and expectations are taken into account when determining the necessary procedures.
First, existing decayed teeth and gum diseases are treated, and dental cleaning procedures are performed. After that, procedures are determined based on the patients’ needs. These procedures typically include gum aesthetics (gingivectomy), teeth whitening (bleaching), compensating for missing teeth with implants and prosthetics, porcelain veneers and crowns, zirconium crowns, and orthodontic treatments (braces).
In smile design, it is crucial to accurately understand the patient’s aesthetic expectations and identify their needs. Problems are identified and plans are made based on models created from measurements taken from the patient’s mouth. Then, using the patient’s intraoral and facial photographs, measurements are made with special software, and compatibility with facial shape is calculated. The closest representations of the anticipated results after treatment are presented to the patient through these programs and temporary restorations that closely resemble the final product.
Once the planning is complete, if orthodontic treatment is not necessary, any irregularities in gum levels are corrected first. In cases where there are missing teeth, the planned implant procedures and any other necessary surgical applications are carried out. After the healing periods of these surgical procedures are completed, teeth whitening treatments are applied if needed. At this stage, visual and shape-related issues with the teeth are sometimes corrected using aesthetic composite fillings. In cases where this method is insufficient, porcelain laminates and crowns, as well as zirconium crowns, are used. For porcelain laminate applications, typically no or minimal enamel reduction is performed. If porcelain or zirconium applications are deemed appropriate, the patient’s feedback is taken during the trials, and changes may be made. Throughout all these gum and dental applications and trials, the shape and contour of the lips are also considered, finalizing the desired design.
Sometimes, medical aesthetic applications are also utilized during smile design. Dermal fillers and similar treatments applied to the lips and facial areas can enhance the smile.