Digital Smile Design
What Is Digital Smile Design (DSD)?
Every individual has unique facial features, personality, and characteristics. Since teeth are one of the most important factors that define appearance, these details must be considered in smile design.
With Digital Smile Design, all these unique aspects are transferred into digital format using advanced methods. Specialized software then analyzes them to create the most personalized and natural-looking smile possible.
This protocol has become a key part of cosmetic dentistry, enhancing dentist–patient communication and ensuring predictable, customized results.
Who Is a Candidate for Digital Smile Design?
Anyone who wishes to improve their smile is a candidate for this experience.
How Many Sessions Does It Take?
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The design is typically completed in two sessions.
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In the first session, your ideal smile is digitally created and shown on-screen.
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A trial/mock-up is then applied in the mouth to preview the design.
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Adjustments can be made immediately or in a follow-up session if necessary.
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Once approved, the treatment procedures are planned accordingly.
What Happens at the First Appointment?
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Professional studio photos and videos are taken.
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Impressions of the upper and lower jaws are recorded.
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No drilling, trimming, or alteration of the teeth is performed at this stage.
How Long Does Preparation Take? 
The digital smile design is usually prepared within 3–5 days.
During this time, your records are analyzed digitally and your smile is designed considering:
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Facial proportions (eyes, nose, chin, lips, etc.)
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Dental shape and form
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Visagism concept, ensuring harmony between the smile and the patient’s personality & style
The design is then converted into a physical model for testing and presented to you at the second appointment.
What Happens at the Mock-Up Session?
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A silicone template made from the digital design is placed over your natural teeth without any drilling.
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After a short wait, it is removed, and you can preview your new smile.
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Studio photos and videos are taken again, and the digital simulation is compared to your actual preview.
If adjustments are required, they can be made on the spot or at another session.
Can I Request Changes?
Yes. The purpose of the mock-up is to allow you to express what you like or dislike about the design.
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Small changes (e.g., slightly adjusting the length of one tooth) can be done immediately.
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Larger modifications may require another appointment.
What Happens After Approval?
Your dentist will explain in detail which treatments are necessary to achieve the approved design (e.g., cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, implants, or gum aesthetics).
The treatment process is then started, and all steps are carried out in line with the approved digital plan.
Will the Final Result Look Exactly Like the Digital Design?
Yes—but better. The mock-up material is temporary and not as strong or esthetic.
Your final restorations are crafted with high-quality, durable, and esthetic materials under laboratory conditions, meaning the actual result will be even more natural and beautiful than the preview.