Smile Design
Smile design goes well beyond simply beautifying individual teeth. Your facial features, lip structure, gum line and the expressions that appear when you speak and smile are all considered together. The aim is not to apply the same tooth shape to everyone, but to design a smile that belongs to you. In Istanbul the treatment takes three days, within a four-night programme.
What is smile design?
Smile design is not the name of a single procedure but a way of planning. As well as the colour and shape of your teeth, it takes into account how much of your teeth show when you smile, how much gum is visible and how your teeth relate to the midline of your face.
The purpose of this approach is a result that looks like you rather than something obviously “done”. For that reason your own expectations are part of the plan from the design stage onwards.
How is it different from a Hollywood Smile?
The two are often confused. A Hollywood Smile is a treatment in which the teeth visible when you smile are renewed as a whole with restorations, usually aiming for a noticeably bright, even look.
Smile design, by contrast, is a planning process and its outcome can be far more subtle. In some cases whitening and cosmetic fillings are enough; in others restorations are needed. Smile design is therefore a broader framework that can include a Hollywood Smile.
What is assessed in the design?
The design is assessed under three main headings: facial symmetry, the smile line and tooth proportions. Alongside these, your gum level, lip movement and skin tone are also taken into account.
Facial Symmetry
Aligning the facial midline with the dental midline
Smile Line
Tooth edges following the curve of the lower lip
Tooth Proportions
Calculating the width and length ratio of each tooth
Which methods may be used?
- Teeth whitening — where a colour change is enough
- Cosmetic fillings — small shape and edge corrections
- Porcelain veneers — a thin layer on the front surface
- Zirconia restorations — when more extensive renewal is needed
How does it work, step by step?
Online consultation (from home)
You share photos of yourself smiling over WhatsApp. The dentist makes an initial assessment and we send possible approaches and a personalised quote within 24 hours.
Day 1 — Analysis and design
After an examination and X-rays, your facial proportions, smile line and tooth proportions are assessed. Once the design is agreed together, the first procedure is carried out; this appointment takes around 2 hours.
Day 2 — Free day
There is no clinic visit on this day. While your design is being prepared you are free to explore Istanbul — the guided Bosphorus tour can be scheduled here.
Day 3 — Demo try-in and application
A temporary demo of the design is prepared in your mouth, so you see your new smile before anything permanent. Once you approve it, the aesthetic procedures, bonding and final adjustments are carried out.
Day 4 — Final check-up
Your bite, gum fit and colour are checked one last time and aftercare is explained. After this check-up you are ready to fly home.
Who is it suitable for?
- People unsure exactly what they want to change about their smile
- Those who want a natural rather than an exaggerated result
- Adults with healthy teeth and gums
When might it not be suitable?
- Anyone with untreated decay or gum disease
- Significant crowding — orthodontic treatment may be needed first
- Young people whose jaw and teeth are still developing
The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not replace medical advice. The right treatment for you is determined individually after a dental examination.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I need to stay in Istanbul?
Is smile design the same as a Hollywood Smile?
Can I see the result beforehand?
How long does it last?
Is the treatment painful?
Get your personal treatment plan
Send us your photos and our specialists will send your personal treatment plan and an all-inclusive price within 24 hours.