Smile analysis and the use of lasers in cosmetic dentistry

To achieve a beautiful smile requires a detailed understanding of the shape of a face, lips, teeth and healthy/even gum tissues. Patients present with a wide variety of clinical situations, and each smile has to be designed to suit the individual.

Smile Analysis is important to assess a defined set of aesthetic parameters that constitutes an ideal smile, and is integral in treatment planning of cosmetic cases. There are precise guidelines on the gingival zenith positions, and lasers are excellent to carry out gingival recontouring. A soft tissue laser can be used to make small changes, and an all tissue laser like the Er,Cr:YSGG laser is required for osseous crown lengthening (often possible non-surgically).

Communication with the patient is also important as patients often want to have a preview of what their smile will look like before they make a commitment to carry out procedures such as composite or porcelain veneers.

The dentist is responsible for precise and detailed communication with the dental laboratory to ensure that the final results are optimum for the patient.

Release date: 2024-01-25 | Expiration date: 2027-01-25