What does “Smile line” mean?
Smile line is a term that describes the lines between teeth and lips that are visible when smiling. It is used in a context that refers to the relationship between the curve of the tip of the front teeth and the lower lip, or the exposure of teeth and gums, so it is necessary to distinguish which line is being referred to.
Original spelling: 스마일 라인
See your entire smile rather than just one tooth
The curve created by the tips of the front teeth is affected by the length and position of the teeth and lip movement. Even if one tooth looks pretty, the length connected to the adjacent tooth and the flow of the smile may be awkward.
At the dentist, we look at how you look when you are still, smiling, and talking. The lines seen in still photos and the moving smile are not always the same.
How do I use it in my designs?
The smile line helps guide discussions about target length when veneers or other restorations improve the shape of front teeth. If tooth position is the cause, orthodontic evaluation is needed; if the relationship between the gums and lips is the cause, that relationship needs assessment.
A set curve does not apply to everyone. The characteristics of the original teeth, face, lips, and bite are taken into consideration, and function is not sacrificed for appearance alone.
Relationship with lip line
Lip lines are centered around the position and movement of the lips. When discussing smile line, it is easier to communicate if you specifically check whether it refers to the curve of the tip of the teeth or the height at which the gums are visible when smiling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need treatment if my smile line is asymmetrical?
Asymmetry alone does not necessarily require treatment. We check the tooth position, length, lip movement, and your discomfort.
Will my smile line improve if I just increase the length of my front teeth?
Connection with adjacent teeth, lower lip curve, pronunciation, and bite should also be considered. See where increasing the length affects.
Can I decide on a design with just one photo?
Still photos are for reference only. You can understand a moving smile by looking at the amount of exposed lips and teeth when smiling or speaking naturally.
3 things to check before Smile Line consultation
Please review the questions to ask before deciding on treatment and the treatment standards of TU Dental Clinic.
- A choice suited to your condition
Does the clinic check the relationship between teeth and lips during laughter and pronunciation?
TU Dental Clinic’s treatment standardsTU Dental Clinic uses an intraoral preview to assess length, proportions, volume, and harmony with the face and lips. Color and bite are checked again at the final try-in.
What to check in simulation, smile preview, and try-in - Sufficient understanding
Are changes in length and proportion discussed in the preview?
TU Dental Clinic’s treatment standardsTU Dental Clinic explains the different roles of the screen design, temporary preview, and final try-in. It also explains that temporary materials do not exactly reproduce the translucency and texture of the final ceramic.
What to check in simulation, smile preview, and try-in - Preservation of natural teeth
Does the clinic tell you the extent of tooth preparation needed to change the appearance?
TU Dental Clinic’s treatment standardsTU Dental Clinic examines the remaining tooth tissue and determines the scope of treatment by distinguishing between functionally necessary treatment and aesthetic adjustments.
TU’s natural tooth preservation treatment philosophy
Further reading and references
Further reading
TU treatment guideOral Design guide
Oral Design is a global aesthetic dental philosophy that views teeth as a key design element, meticulously considering facial balance, expressions, age, and individual aura. Upon this standard, TU Dental Clinic designs every detail of the patient journey.
Last updated Medically reviewed by Dr. JAEWON SEO Chief Director (Reviewed )TU BlogUneven Front Teeth: What Can Dental Veneers Change About Their Length and Shape?
Veneers can improve differences in front-tooth length, edge shape, width, and color. Uneven gumlines or tooth positions may need another approach. Even when treating just one tooth, its shape and color must blend with the neighboring tooth. The bite and tooth condition determine whether to lengthen or reshape a tooth and how much preparation is needed.
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