Smile design is a planning process rather than a single treatment. It looks at your teeth, gums and face together, then sets out which treatments to use and in which order to reach the result you want.
What a smile design assessment looks at
Your dentist will look at the shape, size and colour of your teeth, any gaps, crowding, worn or chipped edges, the gum line and how your teeth meet when you bite. They will also look at how much of your teeth shows when you talk and smile, and how your smile sits with your lips and lower face.
Photographs and X-rays may be used. Any decay or gum disease is treated first, because cosmetic work needs healthy teeth and gums underneath.
Treatments that may be part of the plan
- Clear aligners to move crowded or gappy teeth into a better position. At Dentaltech, aligner treatment is available for patients aged 18 and over.
- Teeth whitening to lighten the natural colour of your teeth.
- Composite bonding to reshape teeth, close small gaps and rebuild chipped or worn edges.
- Crowns for teeth that are heavily filled, cracked or discoloured.
- Replacing missing teeth with implants, bridges or dentures.
- Smile harmonisation, clinician-delivered facial aesthetic treatments that balance the lower face with the smile.
Why the order of treatment matters
Teeth are usually straightened before they are reshaped. Moving teeth first often means less composite or ceramic needs to be added afterwards.
Whitening is usually done before bonding or crowns. The colour of composite and ceramic is matched at the time it is placed, and it does not lighten if you whiten your teeth later.
Setting realistic expectations
Results vary from person to person. Ask your dentist to show you before and after cases similar to yours, and to explain what is achievable for your teeth.
Before you start, ask about the number of visits, the timeline, the cost of each stage and what maintenance is needed. Composite bonding, for example, may need polishing or repair over the years.
Starting with a consultation
Dentaltech offers a free consultation with a Treatment Coordinator to discuss composite bonding, clear aligners, implants and dentures. You can talk through your goals and get a written plan before you commit to anything.
Consultations are available at our clinics in Terenure, Swords, Wexford and Waterford.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about planning cosmetic treatment.
Is smile design a single treatment?
No. It is a plan that may combine several treatments, such as aligners, whitening and bonding.
How long does it take?
It ranges from a single visit for minor bonding to several months if teeth need to be straightened first.
Should I whiten my teeth before bonding?
Usually yes. Composite is colour-matched when it is placed and does not change colour with whitening.
Is the first consultation free?
Yes, the consultation with our Treatment Coordinator for composite bonding, clear aligners, implants and dentures is free.
Can I spread the cost?
Klarna lets you split treatment into three interest-free payments, and Humm is available for composite bonding.
Plan your smile with our team
Book a free consultation to talk through your goals and get a treatment plan with clear stages and costs.