How to Find a Cosmetic Dentist
Cosmetic dentistry is more popular than it has ever been with quite a few procedures a patient can receive to feel more confident about their smile! You have a number of resources at your disposal to find the best Cosmetic Dentist that will do excellent work while making you comfortable. It is important that you are comfortable with the doctor you choose and that you trust their abilities and understand what to expect throughout your treatment.
Keep in mind, any Dentist can call themselves a Cosmetic Dentist because cosmetic dentistry is not a recognized specialty. The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry has a list of all of the certified Cosmetic Dentists in your area. Only true Cosmetic Dentists are members of the AACD and are privy to continuing education courses that keep them up-to-date on current trends and techniques. True Cosmetic Dentists have received additional hands-on training after graduating from dental school.
How do I find a great Cosmetic Dentist?
Your friends and family can be a great source of information! If anyone in your social circle has had cosmetic dental work done, they can tell you all about their experience. Collect a few names and do some online research, check out the smile gallery one each website to see the before and after photos of the cosmetic work that they have done on others.
You may also consider speaking with your general Dentist. Chances are, they can provide your treatment but in the event that they do not perform cosmetic procedures, they can help you find an excellent Cosmetic Dental that they trust with your care. Cosmetic dentistry is not cheap and good cosmetic dentistry can be very costly but if you are careful to choose a Dentist with great experience, that will ensure that you have high-quality work that will last a lifetime!
Take into consideration the geographical location of the office from you. Most cosmetic dentistry does require multiple visits so it is important that you find someone that is easily accessible to you.
What next?
If you have a few names that you would like more information on, schedule a consultation with each candidate. This is a great way to actually see the office and meet the doctor in person which will give you a feel of their bedside manner. A lot of offices offer a free consultation that you can take advantage of to compare treatment options and costs.
Be honest with the Dentist about your lifestyle habits and oral hygiene habits so they can present the best treatment options for your individual case. During a consultation, you will also get an idea of the overall cost and timeframe of treatment. This will also be the time to discuss financial arrangements if necessary. A lot of offices offer in-house financing or use a third-party financing company, like CareCredit to help ease the financial burden for their patients.