An Overview of Digital Smile and its Use in Aesthetic Dentistry

Abstract

The idea of beautiful aesthetic smile dates back into history and has evolved further over the recent decades. The transition of smile design from 2-dimension approach to three dimensions approach was introduced in the last two decades and in recent times has shifted completely to computer aided digital smile design. The use of digital smile design helps the patient to visualize the outcome of treatment prior to the initiation thus yielding better satisfaction. The purpose of this research is to review the available information about digital smile and its use in aesthetic dentistry. Patients concerned with improving their smile are taking keen interest in the field aesthetic dentistry. Various digital smile design software is available and used in clinical practice. Digital smile design involves patients in the process of designing their smile formats, which leads to customizing smile based on individual needs and desires. It may be necessary to better encourage patients to recognize the aesthetic aspects and improve their knowledge of the smile design to obtain additional results. The digital smile design opens many opportunities for teaching, learning, and practice. Literature reveals that application of digital smile in aesthetic dentistry results in effective patient outcomes as it not only aids the patient in visualizing his treatment but is also helpful tool for dentist in treatment planning and management however, more clinical studies in future are needed to highlight the impact of digital smile design in the field of aesthetic dentistry.