Smile Evaluation/Smile Design

One of our most important and appreciated services is the time we take to examine and determine the
cause(s) for a smile that is not as pleasing as you would like. By obtaining the proper data--facial height, lip position, gum height, and so on, as well as the tooth position, size, and color--we can come up with a proper diagnosis, and consequently, an appropriate, personalized treatment.

In some complex cases, obtaining the desired results requires a combination of treatments at the periodontist (gum specialist) and orthodontist; an oral surgeon may even be necessary at times before modifying the teeth. Although not everyone will choose to follow the optimum treatment, Dr. Bell’s commitment is to be as complete in the diagnosis as possible and to give patients information on all the alternatives and variables related to their treatment. Being so meticulous does take more time and effort from all those involved, but this initial effort tends to prevent many problems after treatment is completed.

To help people have the best smiles possible, we use several innovative tools. One of those tools is computer imaging, in which a digital picture is taken and used to simulate the effects of treatment. The smile can be whitened, teeth changed, gums moved, and so on, to simulate a totally new smile. This new image is then placed side by side with the original picture, quickly and easily showing the possibilities.

If the patient chooses to proceed with smile enhancement, we will often send the plaster model of the patient’s teeth to a laboratory for a diagnostic wax-up, along with the computer image approved by the patient. The plaster models allow the patient to hold the models side by side to visualize the changes before and after the smile enhancement.

Upon choosing to proceed with the actual treatment, the wax-up is used to make the temporary white composite restorations (ceramic with plastic filler), allowing our patients to actually try out their new smile before the final restorations are placed. This gives our clients a chance to show the proposed result to others, eat, talk, smile and make sure they are pleased with their treatment before the final restorations are completed.

It is wonderful to see the positive impact that this sort of procedure has on the lives of our patients.

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