Consultants’ Comments
- “The developer did so many smart things in the software to make this an excellent treatment planning and lab communication tool, not just an imaging software. That makes the software worth the investment.”
- “Fundamental skills with photography are a prerequisite to using Smile Designer Pro.”
- “Enables the patient to get an idea of what can be changed in their smile; a copy can be printed or sent to their e-mail.”
- “The horizontal correction tool is a smart addition.”
- “I would like to see a simplified step-by-step work flow in the help section for quick reference.”
- “Not super intuitive, but it does get better with use.”
- “Provide at least one lower tooth template for full-mouth simulations.”
Description
Smile Designer Pro is an iPad software application that uses digital imaging for communication and treatment planning of cosmetic case presentations to patients. The application uses vectors and curve control point interactions to design teeth. Using touch or a stylus, the user can re-size tooth geometry while maintaining proportion, as well as rotate, move, duplicate, and mirror. Specialized guides and calipers are included: midline guide, horizontal guide, lip curve guide, interdental width proportion guide, and proportion measurement caliper. Smile Designer Pro supports high-resolution photo imports from Dropbox, up to 15 megapixels on an iPad2 or newer model. Pictures can also be taken using the iPad’s built-in camera, or photos can be imported from the iPad Photo Library. Smile Designer Pro was evaluated by 17 consultants in over 200 uses. This cosmetic imaging application received an 86% clinical rating.
Product Features
Smile Designer Prooffers a significant number of tools for smile design. Because this is a dental program, it is easier to use and more applicable than programs such as Photoshop, Keynote or other generic imaging software. For some users the learning curve was short, while others found it complex. Starting with good digital photos is important. When taken at the same angle, the software effectively correlates natural smile and retracted patient images together. This feature allows the design to be done on the retracted view and also be used for smile simulation. Tools include a smudge brush which is used for tooth shortening, however there is no tool for “erasing” existing teeth. Designs that were additive had a better result than those that required removal of the teeth. Overall, Smile Designer Pro was most useful to clinicians who were already performing high-end cosmetic dentistry and those familiar with smile design.
