The “Before” Is Just as Important: How Digital Smile Design Takes the Guesswork Out of Your New Smile

Let’s be honest for a second. If you’ve ever stood in front of the mirror and thought, “I’d really love to change my smile,” you’ve probably also felt that little flutter of nerves. What will the results actually look like? Will it feel like me? What if I don’t like it? Those questions are totally normal. And at AH Smiles in Arlington Heights, Dr. Brent Engelberg and his team believe you should have answers to them before any work begins. That’s where Digital Smile Design comes in.

How Digital Smile Design Works in Arlington Heights, IL

Seeing Is Believing (and Planning)

Digital Smile Design is exactly what it sounds like, an advanced way to plan out your new smile on a screen before we touch a single tooth. Think of it like test-driving a car or trying on an outfit before you buy it. You get to see the destination before you even start the journey.

Here’s how it works in plain terms: Dr. Engelberg takes a series of digital photos and, in some cases, a quick scan of your teeth. Using specialized software, he can map out how adjustments to things like the shape, size, or color of your teeth would look on you. Not on some generic model. Not on someone else’s smile. On your face, with your features, your expressions, and your personality.

Why This Matters for You

So why go through this extra step? Because it takes the mystery, and the anxiety, out of cosmetic dentistry.

Maybe you’ve got a few teeth that are chipped, worn down, or just a little out of alignment. Maybe you’re considering porcelain veneers or a full smile makeover. Whatever the case, Digital Smile Design lets you sit in the chair, look at the screen with Dr. Engelberg, and have an honest conversation about what you like and what you might want to tweak.

You’re not just hoping for the best. You’re actively involved in designing a smile that actually looks like it belongs to you. Because it does. It’s a team approach, and you’re the most important member of that team.

The Difference a Plan Makes

There’s another benefit here that’s easy to overlook: precision. When Dr. Engelberg knows exactly what you’re both working toward, he can better create a detailed treatment plan that gets you there efficiently. Whether it’s minimally invasive veneers or a more involved restorative case, the technology helps ensure the final result matches the plan you approved together.

And because Dr. Engelberg is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and committed to ongoing education, you’re getting someone who not only uses the latest tools but truly understands how to make results look natural and beautiful.

More Than Just a Pretty Smile

Here’s something patients often tell us after they’ve been through the process. It’s not just about having nicer teeth. It’s about how that new smile makes them feel. More confident in pictures. More comfortable speaking up in meetings. Less likely to hide their smile when they laugh.

One of our patients came in with front teeth that were chipped and worn. She wanted them to look natural and to last. Through the process, starting with a plan, Dr. Engelberg designed a smile that did both. She left with teeth that were stronger, healthier, and honestly? Beautiful.

Ready to See Your Own Smile Possibilities?

If you’ve been thinking about making a change but felt held back by uncertainty, Digital Smile Design might be exactly what you need. You can come in, see what’s possible, and decide from there. No pressure, just information.

Dr. Engelberg and our team at AH Smiles serve patients from Arlington Heights and nearby communities like Buffalo Grove, Long Grove, and Northbrook. Give us a call or go online to schedule a consultation. Let’s take a look at what your smile could become, together.