How to Choose a Great Cosmetic Dentist

It takes more than slick marketing, cute slogans, and “cosmetic dentist” listings in the Yellow Pages to be a skilled cosmetic dentist. To make sure your smile is in the best hands, consider the following guidelines for choosing a great dentist:

1. Start by making sure that whoever you select has specific training in aesthetic dentistry. Great cosmetic dentistry is accomplished by dentists with advanced training and regularly attends continuing education courses. Ask the doctor or staff or consult the practice web site to learn of special qualifications regarding expertise and training and if they have experience in teaching, clinical instructing, or with professional study groups.

2. Your first visit should be a consultation to discuss your desires and to determine the best solutions for your situation. A complete evaluation of your teeth will be necessary so you can discuss how any treatment will affect your bite, your gums, and the general function of your teeth. A good dentist will take the time to listen, answer your questions and treat you with respect. A good cosmetic dentist will generally insist that you resolve underlying biological and functional problems before pursuing elective cosmetic procedures.

3. Ask to view a photo book of patient before-and-after pictures so that you can have a good idea of the type of results you might expect or request. A good cosmetic dentist knows how to take great patient pictures. You should expect to see pictures of the dentist’s own work as well as to have your own dental photos taken, so that you can see your own smile and better co-develop an appropriate plan for treatment.

4. It is helpful to have a good idea about what you like or dislike about your smile and teeth. Be prepared to discuss this at your consultation visit so you can match this with the skills and experience of the dentist.

5. A good cosmetic dentist understands and follows the rules of Smile Design and will go over these with you so that you will understand how your smile can be made its very best. Their web site should have information on Smile Design or Smile Analysis that will help you understand how to better evaluate your smile.

6. Ask what laboratory ceramist the dentist uses to make your porcelain restorations. Good cosmetic dentists are very particular about the quality of laboratory ceramist they use. First-class lab support is crucial to you receiving a quality result. A good dentist is willing to pay (and charge) for the quality and peace-of-mind that this expertise brings to your smile.

7. Generally, cosmetic procedures are elective and tend to be more expensive by nature. Wise planning, good financial strategy and the availability of financial options can make this dental care affordable. You should be suspicious if a dentist is offering something far below the industry cost range. Remember that dental insurance is not a “pay-all”, is generally reserved for routine dentistry, and normally will not cover cosmetic procedures.

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