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What is Digital Smile Design?

25 July 2025

When considering a smile makeover in Newbury, one of the most common concerns patients share is uncertainty about the final result. “Will my new smile suit my face?” “How will I know if the treatment is right for me?” These are perfectly valid questions that deserve clear, visual answers.

At The Briars Dental Centre, we’ve revolutionised how patients approach smile transformations through Digital Smile Design (DSD)—advanced technology that allows you to see your future smile before treatment even begins. Let us explain…

What is Digital Smile Design?

Digital Smile Design is a cutting-edge treatment planning tool that combines photography, videography, and 3D imaging to create a comprehensive digital blueprint of your ideal smile. Rather than relying on imagination or basic descriptions, DSD provides precise visual representations of how your smile will look and function after treatment.

Unlike the unrealistic “Hollywood white” smile often portrayed in media, DSD focuses on creating your perfect smile—one that harmonises with your unique facial features, meets your treatment goals, and provides optimal functionality and longevity.

The Science Behind DSD

DSD technology analyses multiple factors that contribute to an attractive, healthy smile:

  • Facial proportions and symmetry
  • Lip dynamics during speech and smiling
  • Tooth-to-face relationships
  • Gum line aesthetics
  • Functional bite relationships
  • Individual treatment objectives

This comprehensive analysis ensures that your smile makeover in Newbury isn’t just beautiful—it’s perfectly suited to you.

How DSD Works at The Briars

As one of only three dental practices in the UK offering this advanced DSD service, The Briars has developed a streamlined, patient-focused approach to digital smile planning.

Initial Consultation Process

Your journey begins with a Treatment Coordinator (TCO) consultation, where we gain valuable insights into your treatment needs and aesthetic goals. This initial meeting helps us determine whether DSD is the right pathway for your specific requirements.

If we identify that treatments such as Invisalign, dental implants, or cosmetic improvements like veneers could benefit from DSD planning, we’ll schedule you for a detailed consultation with Dr Victoria Holden or Dr Nick French.

Advanced Digital Records

During your consultation, our experienced team captures comprehensive clinical records, including:

  • High-resolution clinical photography
  • Dynamic videography showing natural lip movement
  • Precise dental measurements
  • Digital radiographs and CBCT scans to assess bone quality and quantity, and identify any underlying issues that need addressing before treatment
  • CBCT scans when required
  • Facial scans for 3D analysis

These records form the foundation of your personalised DSD treatment plan.

The DSD Treatment Planning Process

Creating Your Ideal Smile

Using the captured data, our team creates a detailed digital model of your “ideal smile.” This isn’t a generic template—it’s a unique design that considers:

  • Your natural facial structure
  • Personal aesthetic preferences
  • Functional requirements
  • Long-term oral health goals
  • Treatment feasibility

Comprehensive Pre-Treatment Assessment

An essential benefit of combining DSD with advanced imaging is the ability to thoroughly assess your oral health before treatment begins. CBCT scans and detailed radiographic analysis help us:

  • Evaluate bone quality and quantity for implant treatments
  • Identify underlying dental issues such as root problems or hidden decay
  • Assess gum health and bone levels around existing teeth
  • Plan for any necessary preliminary treatments before your smile makeover

This comprehensive assessment ensures that your treatment plan addresses all aspects of your oral health, not just the aesthetic goals.

Visual Treatment Planning

One of DSD’s greatest advantages is its ability to show patients exactly why certain treatments are recommended. For example, if dental implants require Invisalign treatment first, patients can visualise how orthodontic movement creates the optimal space for implant placement.

This transparency eliminates guesswork and helps patients understand the logic behind multi-phase treatment plans.

Trial Smile Technology

For patients hesitant about treatment outcomes, we offer “trial smile” visualisations. These allow you to see potential results before committing to treatment, providing confidence and peace of mind throughout your decision-making process. Check out the ‘mock-up’ below for our patient, Amy. She was keen to visualise how her smile would look without the gap between her upper anterior teeth. With DSD, we were able to create a trial smile and show her!

Benefits of Digital Smile Design

Enhanced Treatment Predictability

Traditional dental treatment planning often relies on the dentist’s experience and the patient’s imagination. DSD removes this uncertainty by providing precise visual representations of expected outcomes.

Improved Patient Communication

Complex dental treatments become much easier to understand when patients can see detailed visuals of each treatment phase. This improved communication leads to better treatment acceptance and more satisfied patients.

Optimised Treatment Outcomes

By planning treatments digitally before beginning clinical work, we can identify potential challenges and optimise treatment sequences for better results. This foresight often reduces treatment time and improves final outcomes.

Reduced Treatment Anxiety

Many patients feel anxious about dental treatment because they can’t visualise the end result. DSD eliminates this uncertainty, helping patients feel confident and excited about their treatment journey.

Better Treatment Coordination

When multiple treatments are required, DSD helps coordinate different phases for optimal results. This is particularly valuable for complex cases involving orthodontics, implants, and cosmetic treatments.

DSD for Different Treatments

Invisalign Treatment Planning

DSD enhances Invisalign treatment by:

  • Showing final tooth positions before treatment begins
  • Identifying cases where additional treatments (like dental bonding or veneers) may enhance results
  • Planning optimal attachment placement for efficient tooth movement
  • Visualising how orthodontic treatment supports future cosmetic work

Check out our blog on Invisalign at The Briars to see what kind of difference DSD can make!

Dental Implant Planning

For implant treatments, DSD provides:

  • Precise implant positioning for optimal aesthetics
  • Crown design that harmonises with surrounding teeth
  • Assessment of whether orthodontic preparation is beneficial (creating space where spaces have started to close)
  • Planning for tissue management around implants

Veneer and Crown Planning

DSD assists cosmetic treatments by:

  • Designing tooth shapes that complement facial features
  • Planning conservative preparations that preserve natural tooth structure
  • Ensuring symmetry and proportion across all visible teeth
  • Coordinating colour and translucency for natural-looking results

Full Mouth Reconstructions

For comprehensive smile makeovers, DSD enables:

  • Complete bite planning and analysis
  • Integration of functional and aesthetic requirements
  • Coordination between multiple specialists
  • Phased treatment planning for complex cases

Why Choose The Briars for Your Smile Transformation

Pioneering DSD Implementation

As one of the first dental practices in the UK to collaborate with Digital Smile Design, The Briars brings years of experience and expertise to every case. Our early adoption of this technology demonstrates our commitment to innovation and exceptional patient care.

Advanced Technology Integration

DSD seamlessly integrates with our comprehensive technology suite, including:

  • iTero digital scanners for precise impressions
  • CBCT imaging for three-dimensional treatment planning
  • Facial scanners for comprehensive aesthetic analysis
  • Clinical photography and videography for detailed documentation

Multidisciplinary Expertise

Our team includes clinicians experienced in orthodontics, oral surgery, periodontics, and restorative dentistry. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that your smile makeover in Newbury addresses both aesthetic desires and functional requirements.

Patient-Centred Care Philosophy

At The Briars, your smile means everything to us. Our DSD approach reflects this philosophy by ensuring that every treatment plan is tailored to your unique needs, goals, and lifestyle requirements.

Proven Track Record

With over 110 years of dental excellence in Newbury, The Briars combines traditional dental values with cutting-edge technology. Our long-standing reputation for quality care makes us the trusted choice for patients seeking advanced dental treatments.

Your Next Steps

If you’re considering a smile makeover in Newbury and want to see your potential results before treatment begins, Digital Smile Design could be the perfect solution.

Book Your TCO Consultation

Start your journey with a comprehensive Treatment Coordinator consultation. During this appointment, we’ll:

  • Discuss your smile goals and concerns
  • Assess your suitability for DSD planning
  • Explain the treatment process in detail
  • Answer any questions about digital smile design

Experience the DSD Difference

Discover why patients choose The Briars for advanced dental care. Our commitment to innovation, combined with personalised patient care, ensures that your smile transformation exceeds expectations.

A beautiful, healthy smile is an investment in your confidence and quality of life. With our DSD collaboration, technology, and skill set, you can make this investment with complete confidence in the outcome.

Ready to discover your ideal smile? Contact The Briars Dental Centre today to schedule your consultation and learn how Digital Smile Design can transform your smile makeover experience in Newbury.

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For detailed information on the treatments we provide, or to book an appointment, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Testimonials

we love our patients

I recently visited Briars Dental Practice in Newbury and had a truly excellent experience. From the moment I walked in, the receptionist greeted me warmly and made me feel welcome. The hygienist who saw me prior to my appointment with the dentist was very thorough and gave me some great advice on how to keep my teeth healthy.I was then seen by Richard, one of the dentists at the practice, and I have to say that he and his nurse were fantastic. They put me at ease throughout the whole procedure, were extremely professional and caring, and made sure that I was comfortable at all times. I was also impressed by their attention to detail and their willingness to take the time to answer all of my questions.In fact, I was so pleased with my experience that I would also like to mention another dentist named Richard who saw me previously. He too was excellent, very thorough and professional, and I felt very well taken care of during my appointments with him.Overall, I can't recommend Briars Dental Practice highly enough. The staff are all so friendly, professional, and knowledgeable, and they really go above and beyond to make sure that their patients are well looked after. If you're looking for a great dental practice in Newbury, look no further than Briars.
Beatrice Andreea
Beatrice Andreea
12:07 11 May 23
Thank you for a wonderful experience, I am a coward when it comes to the dentist, Mr Nick French, put me at ease, and has the patience of a Saint. I would also say the dental nurse was I lovely lady who let me crush her hand while I was having my injections. I give Briars Dental Centre 10 out of 10, and would not hesitate to recommend them.
Jan Hamments
Jan Hamments
19:11 29 Jun 23
I had a hygienist appointment with Jo and her nurse, Suzanne. It was the first time I’d tried GBT and found the experience much more comfortable than usual. Jo and Suzanne really put me at ease and made sure I was happy throughout the treatment. It was good being able to clearly see the areas which I needed to improve on brushing and Jo gave me great tips. Would highly recommend
Lauren Jade
Lauren Jade
16:52 19 Jun 23
After such a positive experience today with Richard I thought it only fair to delete my previous review. I am a very nervous patient and not ashamed to say I cried before my appointment. Richard and his lovely dental nurse were so understanding and treated me with kindness and empathy. Richard explained everything to me and allowed me to go at my pace. All options for my next appointment were explained to me and I now have trust in Richard that I feel I will not need full sedation. I was in alot of pain prior to my appointment today along with an enormous amount of anxiety. Richard even explained to me how to breathe when having treatment- no other dentist has ever explained that to me before!Thank you again Richard and to your lovely dental nurse.
Mary Lovelock
Mary Lovelock
15:03 24 Apr 23
I had my consultancy appointment with Chelsea today who looked after me very well. She was very friendly and easy to talk to and explained everything to me very nicely. And also answered all of my questions and made me feel at ease today and for future appointments. It was nice to meet you, and thank you.Glenn.
Glenn Cooper
Glenn Cooper
22:20 23 May 23
I recently had to visit Richard Lineker as I'd broken a tooth.He and his lovely nurse Agata made me feel comfortable and explained what treatment I needed.They work extremely well as a team andmy treatment was painless.
Pauline Preston
Pauline Preston
13:59 12 Jul 23
Wanted to share my mother's thoughts of recent experience visiting Jo Craig hygienist."Jo was attentive , caring gentle and thorough today.I came out feeling fresh and motivated.Well looked after also by her lovely nurse Jenny."Angela Shaw.
Suzanne Hendry
Suzanne Hendry
11:03 21 Jul 23
I am very pleased with the treatment I received. After another dentist had told me the tooth had to be extracted, Mr Fady Khoury managed to save the tooth. The procedure was carried out in a very efficient and professional manner and I am very happy with the outcome.
Terence Marshall
Terence Marshall
16:03 24 Jul 23
Had an appointment with Chelsea today and it went very very well. Had my scans and photos done for Invisalign, which can be a bit awkward but she made it a comfortable experience. She was very friendly, welcoming, put me at ease and asked if I had any overall questions at that stage of the process. She was knowledgeable and explained everything I asked about. It's my first time at this clinic so I'm looking forward for my second appointment to discuss treatment. Great first impression from the moment I stepped through the door! Thanks!
Diana
Diana
11:01 31 Jul 23
A very happy customer! I had quite a lot of crooked and misaligned teeth so Victoria introduced me to Invisalign. She carefully created a program to give me the smile I wanted. In the end it took longer than we had expected but Victoria very diligently took me through every step of the process and she didn’t compromise on any part of the process to ensure I got the smile and teeth alignment we both wanted. A huge thank you to her and her assistant Jen who made every effort to make me feel comfortable throughout. Highly recommended.San
San James
San James
17:16 02 Aug 23
My visit to Richard last week went well. He identified that x rays hadn’t been taken for 3 years, and showed me the images, interpreting the results carefully and explaining the steps that may be required as treatment. I am disappointed that I will need to have another consultation to confirm if a root canal is needed. Warning: if you do need a consultation with the endodontist, you will need to pay in advance. I couldn’t do that on the day, but I will be booking in to have this followed up as soon as I can. I will need my own teeth for many more years!
Emma Mulholland
Emma Mulholland
15:31 18 Oct 23
Over the years I`ve found that the Briars delivers consistently high quality dental care and yesterday was no exception. I recieved first class root canal treatment by Dr. Richard Condon and team. Everything was explained carefully and despite my misconceptions was delivered pain free. I have no hesitation in recommending the Briars.
Mark Batten
Mark Batten
10:42 24 Oct 23
Having just completed a course of treatment with The Briars I can strongly recommend Fady and his team. Thank you for your straightforward and thorough approach, and for providing treatment in a stress-free environment.
Tom Saunderson
Tom Saunderson
08:16 02 Nov 23
It was a very welcoming place at the practice with friendly staff whose knowledge was informative and comprehensive. Chelsea was very accommodating and took the time to listen my concerns and provide me with the best advice on what action to take next.
Michael Scrimshaw
Michael Scrimshaw
18:02 23 Nov 23
Had my Hygiene appointment yesterday with lovely Meryl and her nurse Kiera. Meryl was gentle and very thorough. She removed all the staining from my teeth and now they feel super clean. Kiera made sure that I was comfortable throughout the treatment.
Agata Czarnecka
Agata Czarnecka
19:23 18 Jan 24
I highly recommend Briars Dental Care, I can't thank them enough for my teeth, they really put me at ease especially Kody. My teeth have never been straight but over the years they got worse, and made me feel so ashamed and embarrassed by them, now I have nice straight teeth and my confidence back .
Wendy Pearson
Wendy Pearson
09:58 23 Jan 24
Absolutely Excellent service, from the initial phone call with Libby at reception who was so kind, understanding and so helpful and Zoe who helped us on the phone with trying to find us appointments needed and for the amazing care and service received on arrival for treatment that this dental practice is without a doubt outstanding. Five stars is not enough!Highly recommend the briars, lovely staff and top class treatment!
Angel Greaves
Angel Greaves
13:05 07 Feb 24
I can 100% recommend this dental practice as I have been with Briars Dental Centre for a few years now. From the reception staff to the Hygenist and Dentist I have had my confidence boosted in the biggest way. The reception girls are always very professional, helpful, friendly and always make time for a little chat. If it hadn’t been for one of the girls on the reception team I would not have known about the payment plan, which is proving to be well worth it, and gives me free Hygenist and Check-ups and a reduction of 10% on other treatments. Thank you girls for that. You are all fantastic and lovely. Keep doing what you’re doing.My previous Hygenist. Aimee, was absolutely the best and I had no fear going to her. Now I have a new girl, Meryl, and she is also blooming brilliant. Thank you.My dentist, Nicola Murdoch, deserves the most praise having built up my confidence in dentists again. She even adjusts treatments according to my own personal dilemmas, like claustrophobia. She’s just the best. Thank you so much Nicola.
Debbie Huntley
Debbie Huntley
15:45 28 Feb 24
I have just completed my Invisalign treatment and I couldn’t be happier with the results. I wish I had done it sooner! Victoria, Jen and Chelsea were fantastic throughout and I wouldn't hesitate in recommending them.
Jen Woodbridge
Jen Woodbridge
14:38 06 Mar 24
We have received the most amazing service from Rochelle before meeting Dr Holden who will be overseeing my daughters Invisalign treatment. Very professional and approachable team we are very impressed.
Lisa Miles
Lisa Miles
10:11 08 Mar 24
I have just finished my Invisalign treatment with Dr Victoria Holden, I never imagined my teeth would look this good, they are beautiful and straight and I have a glorious smile. The aligners are stress free, comfortable, easy to wear and the scanning was simple. Victoria and Jen have been amazing from start to finish responded to any questions I had. I cannot thank them enough. I would recommend this treatment to any one of any age, it’s the best money I’ve ever spent.
Charlotte Bradford
Charlotte Bradford
09:57 14 Mar 24
Always a good experience at the Briars from the reception team, the hygenist to the dentists themselves . Victoria is the most patient , kind and professional dentist . Highly recommended
Jenny Philcox
Jenny Philcox
16:55 13 Mar 24
I had a lot of discomfort from two adjacent back teeth, the slightest touch of cold drink and it got really painful. The Briars team quickly diagnosed the problem and explained the x-ray images that showed a previous different practice’s root canal had caused decay of the tooth and the adjacent one along with the surrounding bone. I was left with a few choices that were clearly explained to me, but removal of the two teeth was the option I took with an implant replacement for one of them. I was referred to Nick French, who is their implant specialist. I had a process that encouraged the bone to regrow and then the implant. Nick’s demeanour is so calming and his explanations very clear, I had no distress or discomfort at all. I recognised the techniques he uses from the manufacturing industry, they are so advanced that the replacement tooth feels exactly like the one it replaced and now my mouth feels calm for the first time in quite a while. I totally recommend The Briars Dental Centre and Nick French.
David Hartwell
David Hartwell
06:43 04 Apr 24
Having completed my first appointment with Amy at The Briars today I am very happy with the outcome. Everything was very well explained in detail to me and the staff were very polite and professional. Amy’s knowledge was brilliant and the technology used in the appointment was amazingly impressive. It really helped set my mind at ease and pointed me in the right direction for the rest of my treatment journey. I would highly recommend The Briars.
Jonny Paine
Jonny Paine
21:49 19 Apr 24
I’ve been using a periodontal specialist at The Briars for nearly 20 years and have never been disappointed. Treatment and advice has always been top class and has certainly improved the overall health of my teeth.
Martin Shoesmith
Martin Shoesmith
15:26 19 Apr 24
I recently had an appointment with Joanna Craig and I couldn't be happier with the care I received. She was extremely professional and thorough during my cleaning. Her attention to detail was evident, and she made sure I was comfortable throughout the entire process 5 Stars
Neil Garland
Neil Garland
10:41 07 May 24
The Briars Dental Surgery provides an exceptionally friendly and professional service that I would recommend to everyone. I grew up with a fear of dentists born out of difficult childhood experiences. However, I now look forward to my visits with my hygienist Jo Craig and her assistant Kasia. My Associate Dentist Nicola Murdoch provides annual check ups to ensure my overall teeth health remains in great shape. Sharmila has also taken great care of my gums with her specialist expertise. You are in wonderfully safe and caring hands at the Briars and they can cater for everything dental related.
Laurence Berry
Laurence Berry
08:54 10 May 24
All the staff at the Briars are lovely! Having just completed my invisalign treatment I could not be happier with the results! The process was quick and painless and the care given during the treatment was spectacular!
Jake Martin
Jake Martin
09:29 10 May 24
Had a great detailed and well explained consultation with Chelsea regarding my concerns about dental treatment to improve my smile. She was so thorough and the whole thing was very pleasant.
Bridget & Warwick Ryan
Bridget & Warwick Ryan
11:14 13 Jun 24
Great service for a root canal treatment. Dr Richard Condon was very professional, explained everything clearly before doing and after the procedure which lasted for 2 hours. Removed a crown, treated the root canals and replaced with temporary crown. No pain during the procedure at all, just a little that day when the numbness faded. Next day almost back to normal. Great job thank you.
Timothy Brew
Timothy Brew
19:00 19 Jun 24
Had an appointment today with my dentist Victoria Holden. I’m so impressed and grateful ???? kind caring efficient professional. I highly recommend and no words to express my gratitude ! Thank you
Natasha Christova
Natasha Christova
12:05 07 Aug 24
First appointment with Richard and Kasia yesturday. It's not my favourite place in the dentists chair but yesterday they made me feel comfortable and confident. We discussed the most suitable dental plan that was right for my needs and Richard put it in place.By the time I got home I had a email with all the information and costings. So professional and empathetic both of them.With gratitude Jo
Joanne Crook
Joanne Crook
13:45 28 Aug 24
After 30 years of constant pain in my head and shoulders I have finally found relief. A consultation with Afif lead to a swift diagnosis and a treatment that has literally changed the quality of my life. Great dentist
Victoria Anderson-Stewart
Victoria Anderson-Stewart
12:38 05 Sep 24
Having moved to the area 2 years ago, I was really hesitant to change dentist but I wish I did it sooner! Richard and team are truly incredible, they make me feel a part of the process and I always come out smiling.Many past experiences throughout my childhood meant the going to the dentist was often anxiety provoking, often ending up in anxiety attacks. I now (dare say) look forward to going to the dentist and feel more calm than I ever had so thank you Richard!I have recently had an onlay fitted and am beyond happy with the whole process and final outcome - you can’t even tell it’s there!Would highly recommend coming to the Briars ????
Abbie Trussler
Abbie Trussler
16:03 19 Sep 24
Fantastic dental practice. Very well equipped with the latest treatments available combined with warm, friendly staff and a very professional service. Definitely the best experience that I’ve ever had with a dental practice, would highly recommend.
Carol Odendaal
Carol Odendaal
10:11 02 Oct 24
I was recently booked in for an appointment with Amy to discuss Invisalign treatment. On arrival, reception staff were lovely and directed me to really nice and homely waiting room! Amy was so great, she made the appointment relaxed and friendly and took me through how Invisalign works and made sure I understood everything. At the end of the appointment she wasn’t pushy with me to get started and pay for treatment. She even emailed me a finance calculator so I could go away and think about what I wanted to do and how I would pay for it. Really lovely place and staff, highly recommend ????
Steph Adams
Steph Adams
16:04 15 Oct 24
I had 4 tooth implants in all, with the work being done to a very standard with great care by Nick French and his team, and I'm very happy with the results.
Mark Thompson
Mark Thompson
09:09 24 Oct 24
I have been visiting the Briars for many years and it is really good inevery way. Whilst visiting a dentist is not usually considered a great place to be, The Briars has a way of making it much easier that you think it will be. The Two treatments I had today were with Richard and Meryl who were both were more than kind, helpful and clear in their explanations. Thank you both so much.
Richard Dalgleish
Richard Dalgleish
15:55 20 Nov 24
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