Artificial intelligence-assisted smile design versus conventional wax-up in esthetic rehabilitation: A comparative study

Objectives: This study aimed to compare artificial intelligence-assisted smile design with conventional diagnostic wax-up in terms of esthetic accuracy, patient satisfaction, and time efficiency. Methods: Twenty-five patients underwent AI-assisted digital smile design and conventional wax-up procedures. Esthetic outcomes were evaluated using visual analog scales by prosthodontists, patient satisfaction was assessed using Likert scales, and time efficiency was recorded. Statistical analysis included paired t-tests and intraclass correlation coefficients. Results: Both methods demonstrated comparable esthetic accuracy. AI-assisted workflows showed significantly reduced time requirements and higher patient satisfaction scores (p < 0.05). Conclusion: AI-assisted smile design offers an efficient, patient-friendly alternative to conventional wax-ups while maintaining esthetic reliability.