What is a Master Diagnostic Model?
The Master Diagnostic Model (MDM) is a uniquely effective case planning and communication tool that improves the accuracy, clarity and understanding of your planned treatment. The MDM is a three-dimensional, lifelike smile model that allows you to visualize the results of your smile enhancements before your teeth are even worked on.
By using a Master Diagnostic Model in patient case presentations, we can show in true-to-life color how the restoration will enhance your smile and overall appearance. Many doctors say that MDMs are even more powerful than computer-enhanced photographs because they are three-dimensional. You are able to hold your future smile in your own hands and look at it from every angle.
When a doctor, laboratory and patient work together on a case, they must communicate many ideas with each other. This process has always been known as "pre-treatment planning." But now, using a MDM, it has literally become "master planning."
How does it work?
Your dentist will create a preliminary model of your mouth and explain the necessary restorations. They will then send this three-dimensional model, along with photos and other diagnostic data to the dental lab where they construct an MDM. The MDM is a “lifelike preview”, making it easy to understand what your needs are in order to obtain optimum function, health and beauty.
More importantly, it is also a three-dimensional communication device. The MDM becomes a blueprint for the provisional restorations (temporary crowns) that are then used as a working model towards achieving the aesthetic result you desire. The MDM assures that you, your dentist and the dental laboratory fully understand the form, function and aesthetics of the recommended restorative and/or cosmetic treatments.
Temporaries as Working Models
The provisional restorations (temporary crowns) can be worn for as long as it takes for you to feel assured and comfortable. During this time, your dentist monitors and modifies your occlusion (bite) while communicating with you about the shape, position and color of your teeth. When the process is complete, and you and your dentist are comfortable with the results, a silicone mold is taken of the perfected provisionals and sent to the laboratory. The laboratory is then able to produce the final restorations knowing exactly what everyone’s expectations are. The final results reflect a perfect process of communication among the lab, doctor and patient.
If you would like more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact our office.