Choosing a Cosmetic Dentist
How To narrow Down Your Search for The Best Cosmetic Dentist
Many dental patients are unaware that any licensed dentist can market themselves as a “cosmetic dentist”. This is highly confusing to the public as the American Dental Association does not officially recognize the difference between the two types of dentistry. And while a general dentist may have the tools to perform a cosmetic dental procedure, a cosmetic dentist who has had the proper extended education, as well as the experience, should be the type of dentist you should aim for when looking for the perfect cosmetic dentist for you.
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Training
Dentistry is not the kind of profession that merely requires experience, but also requires the proper form of education for the license to practice. While all legally practicing dentists have had general dentistry experience, those who have developed a profession in cosmetic dentistry have also undergone extensive education in the practice of cosmetic dentistry. It is vital that every patient should discuss with their dentist about their training and further education on this subject. Do not feel ashamed or worried to ask these questions as your smile depends on it!
Associations
As mentioned above, the American Dental Association does NOT recognize the specialty of cosmetic dentistry. Many dentists who show extreme interest in the cosmetic dental field often sign up for membership with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. However, be wary, being part of this association does not mean all members are cosmetic dentists, but nevertheless, show their interest in it by investing in the membership for the association each year. Nonetheless, it can be a great way to find a serious cosmetic dentist in your area utilizing this association.
Experience
If you are still stumped on whether or not the dentists you’re viewing are good enough to perform your needed procedure, simply ask for proof of their experience. Before & after photos is a great way to see just how experienced the dentist is in that specific dental cosmetic procedure. As the patient, you have the right to ask for a gallery or an album of photos of the patients that the dentist has previously worked on. If that cosmetic dentist is experienced, he or she will have no problem showing you these!
Reviews
One of the greatest ways in finding the right cosmetic dentist for you is by reviews from people you know and trust. A recommendation from a friend you trust can go a long way in deciding whether or not to opt for a specific dentist. If you do not have someone to recommend a dentist for you, online reviews could be your best bet. Online reviews, however, can be highly skewed to one end depending on their experience with the dentist. Be sure to read both good and bad reviews equally before making a decision.
Technology and Anesthesia
Cosmetic dentists who are serious about their cosmetic practices will invest in top-of-the-line technology that can boost the procedures for their patients. Modern practices will have advanced technology such as digital x-rays, dental lasers, internal cameras, monitors and much more. Anesthesia is also a very important aspect of any procedure. Talk to the cosmetic dentist candidate to see what kind of anesthesia they offer and if it aligns with your preferences.
Comfort
One of the most undervalued feelings that a patient should not dismiss when selecting a dentist is how they feel in the office. Was the staff friendly? Were all of the questions you asked answered to your liking? Did the office have a good positive vibe? And more importantly, does the dentist make you feel comfortable and confident in his or her abilities as a dentist?
Time
While many procedures will likely take the same amount of time in any office, some can do it faster than others. If an office has issues with receiving tools or dental parts on-time from their lab, perhaps it may be time to look elsewhere. Be sure to ask if the office will be closed at any time during your transformation process. Will the dentist be going on any vacations? The staff? What holidays should you be aware of? Etc.
Location
This is an understated reason that shouldn’t be overlooked. In most cases, the patient may require multiple visits to the dentist in order to finish all of the steps in their procedures. Be sure the office is within a convenient distance from you as well as in an area you feel comfortable driving in. The location will also have a play in the overall price range of the procedure which should be researched as well.
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Finding the right cosmetic dentist for is just as important as figuring out what procedure to opt for. You want to be sure you feel comfortable and confident in every aspect of your cosmetic dentist from their education, experience, price and much more. Cosmetic dentistry can go wrong if the procedure is in the hands of an inexperienced dentist. Be sure to take advantage of free consultations if the dentists offer it; this is another excellent way to decide whether or not the dentist is right for you.
The beautiful smile you’ve been dreaming of can come to life if in the hands of the right cosmetic dentist. Don’t take this significant step lightly in your dental cosmetic journey!