Objective: Esthetic considerations have become central to modern dentistry, with smile design playing a pivotal role in enhancing facial appearance and self-esteem. Traditional techniques, while effective, often fall short in delivering personalized and highly accurate results. This narrative review explores the advent and evolution of digital smile design (DSD), focusing on its role in enhancing esthetic outcomes through technology-driven customization. The review aims to assess the clinical efficacy of various DSD software platforms and their impact on both clinicians and patients. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted across databases including PubMed, Medline, Embase, and Google Scholar. Relevant studies published between 2013 and 2024 were selected based on their focus on DSD parameters, esthetic analysis, and clinical applications. Emphasis was placed on human studies published in English. Results: DSD integrates digital photography, intraoral scanning, three-dimensional modeling, and computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing systems to streamline esthetic dental planning. Software platforms such as Photoshop, Keynote, esthetic DSD, and Smile Designer Pro offer varying levels of esthetic and functional analysis. While these tools enhance visualization, communication, and treatment planning, they also present limitations related to dynamic assessment, cost, and functional specificity. Conclusion: DSD represents a paradigm shift in cosmetic dentistry, offering greater precision and patient involvement. However, its limitations highlight the need for clinician expertise, careful patient education, and ongoing development to integrate both esthetic and functional components in smile rehabilitation.
Saksena et al. (Wed,) studied this question.