Why use a computer image?
We all have seen "before" and "after" pictures of a smile that has been restored. But it is very difficult for most people to imagine what their smile will look like after treatment. By creating a picture of the teeth being changed step-by-step, and explaining what kind of procedure is going to be used, the patient understands all the necessary steps clearly.

What happens after the imaging appointment?
Usually the client takes home a "before" and "after" picture of the proposed cosmetic work. A copy of the images (and some more detailed information) is sent to the dentist who is doing the clinical work. Only after the dentist approves the clinical possibility of the case, will it be designed. In some cases it will be possible to carry out the changes directly in the mouth - reshaping teeth that are long or chipped, or closing small spaces with white filling material.

If the expertise of a dental ceramist is needed, the teeth are prepared by the dentist and a mould is sent to the laboratory where the ceramist makes each tooth individually to match the previous computer imaging. In some cases, where only one single porcelain tooth must be matched to all other natural teeth, the client visits the ceramist again so the crown can be matched as close as possible. Finally, the restoration is placed permanently into the patient's mouth by the dentist.

What should a patient look out for?
Some images are created by using teeth or total smiles from another person. That can be misleading and is not realistic. Imaging should only be done from the original patient image - changing the smile is achievable, using commonly known dental procedures. Some images showing changes to gum and black roots are often only possible to achieve after gum surgery. The loss of bone and gum after teeth have been missing for several years can be easily imaged, but will take specialist care to carry out on the patient.