Patient Education

How to Choose a Great Cosmetic Dentist

It takes more than marketing, slogans, and “cosmetic dentist” labels on web sites and signs to be a skilled cosmetic dentist. The following are some guidelines for choosing a great dentist.

First, make sure that the doctor you choose has training in aesthetic dentistry. A great cosmetic dentist has advanced training in aesthetics and regularly attends continuing education courses. Speak with the doctor and/or with his staff about his special qualifications, expertise and training and if they have experience in teaching, or with professional study groups. Often times, this information is available on the practice’s website.

Your first visit should be a consultation to discuss your specific issues and expectations. The doctor at this time will determine the best course of action to arrive at your best smile. It is important to discuss how any procedure will affect your bite and gums, so a complete evaluation of your teeth is necessary. Your doctor should take his time, listen to you, and answer any questions you have. It is incumbent upon a good dentist to address any biological and functional issues you may have before performing cosmetic procedures.

Typically, a good dentist is more than happy to show you work he has performed and will keep a file of before and after pictures in his office as well as showcase them on his website. Ask the dentist if pictures on his website are actual patients or if they are stock photos. Professional before and after pictures will give you a good sense of the quality and type of work you can expect from the dentist.
Take the time to do your own “smile analyses” at home so that you can give the dentist a good sense of what you like and don’t like about your smile. During this discussion, you can gauge his or her experience and expertise to be able to address your issues.

A good cosmetic dentist understands and follows the rules of Smile Design and will discuss these with you until you understand how you can achieve your very best smile. Look for information on his her web site for understanding how to evaluate your smile using the Smile Design guidelines.

A Good cosmetic dentist is very particular about the quality of ceramist he or she uses. The very best lab support is crucial in achieving your best smile. Feel free to discuss the dentist’s ceramist who will be making your porcelain veneers or other restorations. The very best lab support gives you quality through their experience and expertise, which means it will cost more but is the only way to achieve the very best quality and ultimately, the very best results.

Cosmetic procedures are elective and tend to be more expensive than general procedures. If you plan wisely and have financial options, you can make your cosmetic procedures possible and affordable.