Start with what matters to you
Smile design is a planning conversation. You may want to discuss color, shape, alignment, a missing tooth, or several concerns together. Whitening, restorations, and orthodontic care offer different ways to approach these goals. There is no single procedure called a perfect smile.
Read more: American Dental Association / MouthHealthy · 8 Ways to Improve Your Smile.
Connect goals with clinical findings
A useful plan relates your preferences to the condition of your teeth and gums. You should understand the expected benefits, risks, alternatives, and implications of leaving a condition untreated. Questions are part of an informed decision.
Read more: American Dental Association · Types of Consent.
Make your consultation practical
Choose two or three things you would like to discuss. Bring examples if they help you explain shape or color, and tell us what you would prefer to keep. It is equally useful to name your constraints: timing, budget, previous experiences, or uncertainty about making a change.
Ask how the proposed steps fit together and where decisions can be made in stages. Explore porcelain veneers, whitening, and clear aligners as starting points for questions, then use your examination to decide which conversation is relevant.
Common questions
Do I need to know which procedure I want?
No. Describe your goals and let the examination inform the options.
Can I discuss a smaller change?
Yes. Tell us the scale of change you have in mind and ask about the alternatives.
General patient information. Your examination and health history determine the advice and treatment appropriate for you.