December 21, 2023
How do you choose a cosmetic dentist? It’s a very difficult and confusing process. Choosing a cosmetic dentist can be a great first step to creating that wonderful smile you’ve always wanted and dreamed of. In fact, 96% of Americans feel an attractive smile makes a person more appealing to a member of the opposite sex, according to a study done by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.
With every dentist out there claiming he or she performs cosmetic dentistry, it’s difficult to determine who will deliver exactly what you’re looking for. Here are some things to think about when choosing your “cosmetic” dentist.
Look for a dentist who has tried to make cosmetic dentistry a focus in his or her practice. Obviously, the more cases a dentist has done, the more likely he or she can deliver consistent results.
This one is big. Make sure the dentist you are selecting has copious photography of his/her work. Before and after pictures are essential for evaluating the level of performance you can expect from that dentist’s work. If a dentist cannot provide you with high quality before and after pictures, run the other way!
Minimal amounts of cosmetic dentistry are taught by dental schools. Make sure to view dentists’ post-graduate credentials when choosing your cosmetic dentist. Do they have credentials from post-graduate institutions? What membership affiliations do they have? What is the focus of their continuing education?
Testimonials on a website are great, but it’s even better for the dentist to have patients whom you could call to discuss their experiences. Other patients sometimes give you a better idea of what to expect before, during, and after treatment.
The dentist should be proud to give you a list of “raving fans” to call who have gone through the particular procedure you’re seeking.
Have a look around the office. This is your opportunity to see the equipment, ask questions about available technology and procedures, and check out the sterilization areas. For instance, if the sterilization area doesn’t look up-to-date, do you think you’ll be happy with the results from that particular dentist?
It is important that you get a sense of honesty and have a high level of communication with the cosmetic dentist you choose. You will be spending some time with the dentist you pick, so if you get a bad feeling, it might be best to move on.
The level of ceramics (or porcelain) will likely be a direct reflection of the quality of fit and aesthetic of your dental appliance. If you are seeking the best cosmetic dentistry possible, ask your dentist if he or she uses a “master ceramist.”
The level of training the ceramist has is EVERY BIT as important as the cosmetic dentist’s level of training. Together, they will work to create the smile you have always dreamed of.
You should expect options when consulting with a cosmetic dentist. During that consultation, a dentist may explain to you an “ideal” treatment, as well as a variety of other options. Options are important because ultimately you are responsible for your own decisions.
Advances in cosmetic dentistry, like most technology, move very fast. Make sure that the cosmetic dentists you are looking into are not ‘resting on their laurels’ from back in the ’90s. One way is to see if they’ve actually won awards for their cosmetic dentistry in competition with dentists nationally and internationally (these competitions are held by dental organizations typically).
These are a few crucial tips that you can use to find the cosmetic dentistry professional that is right for you! If you would like to schedule a consultation with Atlanta Dental Spa, simply call us at 470-237-4504 today!
