What is it?

It is a way to analyze your smile, and then devise a systematic way to enhance your appearance. This may be done by changing the color, shape, size, and the alignment of your teeth. It is basically a potential “make-over” of your smile and appearance.

Process of Smile Design

This process usually starts with a consultation appointment. Dr. Chang-LeMone will sit down with you to determine the specific goals you are trying to achieve. Then, she will conduct a thorough exam and the assistant will take x-rays and photographs.

When you are committed to treatment, the impressions and records will be sent to the lab. Dr. Chang-LeMone will give the lab specific instructions regarding your goals and what you and Dr. Chang-LeMone have agreed upon. The lab will then use white colored wax to produce a “mock-up” of the finished case. You will return approximately 1 week later for preparation and temporaries. At that time, the teeth will be shaped to create room for the restoration material (we will do this as conservatively as possible but still allows the lab to achieve the best cosmetic result). Temporary restorations will then be made off the mock-up so that the you will have a new smile very similar to the final restorations. You will also return in a couple days later to evaluate the temporaries. At that time, any additional changes will be made as to the shape, length, color, etc. to the temporaries. Once the changes are made, we will take another impression and additional photos if necessary so the lab can use them as a “blue-print” for the final restorations.

Two weeks later, we will try in the final restorations. Once you have approved them, they will be bonded in place. You will return one or two days later for a final adjustment. Then you will have a smile you can be thrilled and delighted of.