Cosmetic dentistry is comprehensive oral care that combines art and science to optimally improve dental health, aesthetics and function.

PREDICTABLE RESULT CRITERIA

1. Take photos of:

a. Pre-op teeth with shade guide in same plane as teeth, 1:1, 1:2 from different angles
b. Preps with stump shade tabs in the same plane as preps
c. Temporaries:

i. Full face including eyes, also 1:2
ii. Eye to chin with relaxed lip position

2. Check for adequate clearance using as “Flexible Clearance Guide” or equal
3. Include (bubble wrapped and tightly packed):

a. Pre-op models
b. Impression or model of temporaries
c. Bite registration without stick
d. Stick bite (horizontal plane parallel to pupils or what looks straight with the overall facial features)
e. Detailed lab slip completely filled out including patient goals

4. Remember to:

a. Indicate desired length of final restorations by measuring from the facial margin
b. Separate alginate models before shipping, to make sure they are adequate
c. Label all slides and photos with the patient name

IMPORTANT SHADE SELECTION TIPS

1. Take shade prior to prepping teeth
2. Remove lipstick
3. Drape patient with grey napkin
4. Wear neutral colours (grey or white) yourself
5. Use colour correct light (such as Shade Wand) six to eight inches from teeth
6. Keep patient’s teeth wet during the shade selection process
7. Select the value first with the shade tab in the same plane as the teeth using the criteria that when the tab appears to be more facially positioned, it is too bright (or too high in value).
8. When the table appears to be more in lingual version, the tab is too dark (or too low in value)
9. Initial impression of the shade is the most accurate