Digital Smile Design Session Costs in the UK
Digital Smile Design (DSD) sessions use 3D scans, high-resolution photos, and CAD software to preview veneers, orthodontics, or implants before treatment begins. UK cosmetic clinics offer standalone sessions or bundle DSD into smile makeover plans so patients can approve the look and cost ahead of time.
🖥️ Expect facial analysis, bite scanning, mock-up videos, and temporary “trial smile” shells you can wear home. This de-risks cosmetic work and aligns expectations between patient and dentist.
Planning veneers too? Compare costs in our porcelain veneers guide.
How Much is a Digital Smile Design Session in the UK?
Basic photo & scan package: £150 to £280 for intraoral scans, photos, and digital mock-ups.
Comprehensive DSD with trial smile: £350 to £650 including 3D video presentation and temporary resin mock-ups.
DSD bundled with treatment plan: Often complimentary or £0 - £150 when you proceed with a £5 000+ smile makeover.
Remote DSD review: £120 to £200 when scans are submitted virtually and results reviewed via video call.
DSD + 3D printing for labs: £450 to £750 including STL files for external labs or aligner companies.
Regional Price Differences in the UK
London (Central): Premium studios in Soho or Marylebone charge £400 - £700 due to photography teams and in-house labs.
Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds: Design suites typically cost £250 - £450, 25% less than London.
Smaller cities (Edinburgh, Cardiff, Newcastle): Regional clinics offer DSD for £180 - £350, though trial smile fabrication may take longer.
Factors that Affect Digital Smile Design Pricing
📸 Number of mock-ups
Creating multiple design iterations or printing trial smiles adds lab time.
🖥️ Software & equipment
Clinics using official DSD protocols or 4K photography studios charge more than basic scan-only setups.
👨⚕️ Clinician involvement
Consultant prosthodontists reviewing cases command higher fees than general dentists.
🏢 On-site lab support
Studios with in-house ceramists or 3D printing deliver faster results but add overhead.
📦 Bundled services
When DSD is part of a full smile makeover, clinics often discount it to secure the larger treatment plan.
How to Save Money on DSD Sessions
📅 Book during treatment promos
Cosmetic clinics run seasonal offers where DSD is free with whitening or veneer packages.
🧾 Supply existing scans
Sharing recent intraoral scans can reduce appointment time and fee.
🛫 Consider regional studios
Traveling outside London keeps design fees low while still producing high-quality mock-ups.
📹 Opt for virtual reviews
Video-call design reviews save clinic time, often knocking £50 - £100 off the package.
FAQs
How long does a DSD session take?
Allow 60 - 90 minutes for scans, photography, and design discussion. Trial smiles may require a second visit.
Do I keep the digital files?
Most clinics share photos and videos; STL files may incur extra fees if you want to use external labs.
Is DSD necessary?
It’s optional but reduces risk by aligning expectations. Many patients feel more confident investing in high-value cosmetic work after seeing mock-ups.
What if I don’t like the design?
Designs are adjustable. Clinics typically include up to two revision rounds within the session fee.
Conclusion
Digital Smile Design sessions cost £150 - £700 depending on mock-ups, lab support, and location. Booking during promotions, using regional studios, and opting for virtual reviews keeps the process budget-friendly while still delivering confident smile previews. 📸
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Alan Frost |
| Grew up in and live in Birmingham. Writer, publisher, editor, EFL teacher, composer. |
