Introducing Digital Smile Design
Digital Smile Design (DSD) was developed by a Brazilian Dentist/Ceramist Dr Christian Coachman and first started gaining traction as a method for aesthetic treatment cases (both tooth borne – and implant treatment) in approximately 2010.
The following year, Dr Dunn was invited, along with ceramist Brian Walters, to spend some time in Schaan, Lichtenstein at the headquarters of Ivoclar Vivadent, where Dr Dunn was further immersed in the world of DSD. Recognising the potential of this technique, and how it could be incorporated into our practice for the benefits of both clinician and patient, Dr Dunn travelled to Florence, Italy, in 2011 for a Digital Smile Design intensive with Dr Coachman and his colleague Dr Andrea Ricci.
Since this time, Digital Smile Design has been used for all of our aesthetic treatment plans. Firstly, to be able to communicate more effectively with our patients on both the issues and problems that may present in their treatment and what is required to achieve the final aesthetic outcome. Secondly, to communicate with our ceramist in building the ceramic restorations to the pre-planned and agreed prescription, minimising errors and eliminating ‘diagnostic porcelain’. Thirdly, to be able to communicate with our treating team, including specialist periodontists and orthodontists, the final treatment outcome – and thus, be able to give them the prescription to achieve this goal.
This technique is designed to reduce uncertainty in treatment planning, so that both patient and clinician can agree on the aesthetic outcome before any tooth is prepared. As with any dental treatment, risks must be considered and individual results and experiences may vary.
Dr David Dunn: Digital Smile Design Master
Macquarie Street Dental was also fortunate to have Dr Coachman visit our practice and work side-by-side with Dr Dunn in further refining our team’s skills in Digital Smile Design. Dr Dunn is now recognised as a ‘DSD Master’ — an elite credential awarded to dentists and dental technicians who have achieved the highest level of expertise in the Digital Smile Design (DSD) clinical and technical workflow.
Our cosmetic dentistry page outlines more about the steps involved in the Digital Smile Design technique and its benefits for the patient.
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