Diagnostic Mock-Ups

A diagnostic mock-up is the best way for the dentist and the patient to get a preview of the aesthetic outcome of a case.

Dr. Nihal uses diagnostic mock-ups to help show patients the potential changes we can make to their smiles. This customized simulation process will show you what your new smile could look like.

Think of it as a “test smile” or a “try on smile” that transforms the shape, color, size, or placement of your teeth that help you to see the potential end result of your new smile. If you’ve previously had a difficult time envisioning what your ideal smile could look like, our mock-up process will allow you to see and feel the potential smile transformation.

For patients wanting to transform their smile, we strongly encourage them to try this diagnostic mock-up process as the first step in their smile transformation journey.

#1: Initial Consultation

You will meet Dr. Nihal to discuss your main concerns and expectations about your smile. We will take some digital photos and using those initial photos, discuss different treatment options for you.

#2: Impressions, Wax Up, & Silicone Copy

If you are ready to find out how the try on smile will look like and to finalize your treatment options, we will take some digital or conventional diagnostic impressions. We will then have digital or stone models fabricated for your smile analysis. Dr. Nihal or our master dental ceramist will personally create a diagnostic wax-up using the diagnostic models after analyzing your digital smile photos, occlusion, teeth shape, and form.

Analysis of the patient’s face, the neighboring tissues, and teeth will provide three-dimensional information which is necessary to give the restoration the correct volume and shape.

We will then replicate the diagnostic wax-up with a silicone index.

#3: Diagnostic Mock-Up (Try On Smile)

We will put temporary resin material into the silicone index, then place it onto your untouched, unprepared, existing teeth. As soon as the index is removed, the temporary smile will be ready. You can three-dimensionally see and feel your new smile, take pictures or even go home with them to show your try-on smile to your loved ones. The mockup will give you and Dr. Nihal a chance to discuss if you need to change any shape or form of your new smile.

If both you and Dr. Nihal are satisfied with the mock-up, you can start your dental work at your next visit.