Deciding to move forward and explore your options for cosmetic dentistry is exciting. Maybe you want an entire smile makeover, or perhaps you have one or two issues you’d like to remedy with cosmetic dentistry. Whatever your needs, it’s imperative that you find the best cosmetic dentist near you. Here’s how!
Tips for Finding the Best Cosmetic Dentist Near You
Follow these tips for finding the best cosmetic dentist near you:
- Ask for Referrals: Ask your friends and family who have had cosmetic dentistry which dentist they might recommend. Personal recommendations are often reliable. You may also want to ask other dentists, such as your own general dentist. Online reviews are also an excellent resource to point you in the right direction.
- Check Credentials: Any dentist can claim to be a cosmetic dentist, so you will want to verify any credentials they claim to have. The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) offers a gold standard for credentialing in this field, and many cosmetic dentists pursue this standard.
- Ask About Continuing Education: Cosmetic dentistry requires specialized training beyond general dental school education. Don’t be afraid to ask about the dentist's post-graduate education in cosmetic dentistry.
- Determine Experience in Cosmetic Dentistry: Like other areas of the medical field and dentistry, experience matters in cosmetic dentistry. Ask the dentist how many years they have been practicing and how much of their practice focuses on cosmetic procedures. While there is no formal specialty in cosmetic dentistry or a required number of hours, those with significant experience are often more skilled.
- Review Before-and-After Photos: A good cosmetic dentist should be able to show you examples of their work, either through a gallery in their office or an online portfolio. Be cautious of retouched or stock photos. If unsure, request contact information for patients who can provide personal testimonials.
- Take Your Time During the Consultation: Schedule a consultation with a cosmetic dentist you have researched, and be sure not to rush through it. During this time, focus on clearly discussing your concerns and then listen to the dentist's suggestions. Always remember that effective communication is imperative to achieving the best results in cosmetic dentistry.
- Ensure Your Comfort: You will want to feel comfortable with the dentist, their staff, and their entire office. A welcoming and compassionate environment can greatly enhance your overall experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cosmetic Dentistry
What Dental Problems Can Cosmetic Dentistry Correct?
Almost any unsightly dental problem you can imagine can be remedied through cosmetic dentistry. For example, teeth that are chipped or cracked can easily be fixed with several cosmetic dentistry options, such as porcelain veneers, composite bonding, or dental crowns. Some of the other dental issues that can be addressed through cosmetic dentistry treatments and procedures include:
- Missing teeth
- Misshapen teeth
- Crooked, crowded, or misaligned teeth
- Moderate to severe tooth discoloration
- Tooth decay
- An uneven gum line
- Old amalgam (silver) fillings
These are just a few of the many smile issues that can be fixed or hidden using cosmetic dentistry treatments. Contact our office today to learn more about which options might be right for you.
Who is an Ideal Candidate for Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures?
Most people qualify for some cosmetic dentistry procedures. However, you must have fully-grown teeth before becoming eligible for invasive cosmetic treatment. It’s also essential that you have good oral health. Even a small degree of gum disease must be dealt with before you have cosmetic work done. This is especially true for having porcelain veneers, as the gums will continue to recede as periodontitis progresses, exposing your underlying teeth. Tooth decay and other problems, such as an infection, should be addressed before moving forward with cosmetic dentistry. The good news is that many times, cosmetic dentistry procedures make it easier to take excellent care of your teeth and gums so you can avoid future problems.
Smile Shack: Your Cosmetic Dentistry Partners
If you are interested in cosmetic dentistry, give us a call at 631-928-7500 or schedule your appointment online. Our friendly dentists would be happy to see you to discuss your cosmetic dentistry goals and offer solutions that might work for you.