Smile design.
One conversation for the whole case.

Translate the aesthetic plan into laboratory instructions.

Smile design connects the individual restorations to the overall appearance the dentist and patient are planning. A useful laboratory conversation starts with what is being restored, which details matter most and how the proposed teeth should relate to the existing smile. Tell us what you want to preserve as well as what you want to change.

For a case involving multiple restorations, share the overall plan and the prescription for each tooth. This helps keep the discussion of tooth form, relative proportions, shade and contours connected. The dentist directs the clinical plan; our role is to discuss and carry forward the prescribed laboratory requirements.

Bring crowns, bridges and veneers into the same plan.

Explore aesthetic crown laboratory services for crown-focused cases, our veneer case gallery and services for veneer work, and crown and bridge restorations when the plan includes fixed bridgework. If zirconia is prescribed, review our zirconia crown information before discussing the details with us.

Prepare for a productive case discussion.

1. Describe the objective. Identify the restorations and the appearance you and your patient are aiming for.
2. Discuss the references. Ask which photographs, shade information and digital or conventional impressions should accompany the prescription.
3. Confirm the laboratory requirements. Review materials, submission instructions, pricing and timing before sending the case.

For more on the veneer side of aesthetic planning, visit our veneer craftsmanship and digital workflow website. For a full-arch restorative plan, discuss the separate requirements of our All-on-X laboratory services.