Wax-Up and Mock-Up

A diagnostic wax-up is a physical or digital model where wax is added to replicate the planned final tooth shape and position. It serves as a blueprint for treatment and allows both dentist and patient to evaluate the proposed changes in 3D. Traditional wax-ups are crafted by laboratory technicians on stone models; digital wax-ups use CAD software. A mock-up transfers the wax-up design directly onto the patient's teeth using temporary composite material, allowing them to see and feel the proposed result in their own mouth. This 'test drive' is invaluable for evaluating aesthetics, phonetics (speech), and function before committing to irreversible procedures. Mock-ups also serve as preparation guides and impression matrices for final restorations.