Choose a cosmetic dentist with experience to rejuvenate your smile

Congratulations on your decision to investigate improving the appearance of your smile, self-esteem and opportunities in your world. Surveys commissioned by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) have shown that the smile is the most important factor in attractiveness and self-esteem. If you are considering changes to your smile, it would be prudent to be a wise consumer by investigating certain factors in choosing a cosmetic dentist. Do not hesitate to ask the dentist and team all of your questions. Consider the following concepts to be a wise consumer in choosing your cosmetic dentist.


Do

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  • ask to view photographic samples
  • ask about the process
  • find out about the dentist’s experience
  • ask about the doctor’s education
  • determine if the dentist has genuine credentials
Don't

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  • have unrealistic expectations
  • expect to look the same
  • expect too much of the doctor’s time
  • believe everything you read on the web
  • focus too much on cost

[publishpress_authors_data]'s recommendation to ExpertBeacon readers: Do

Do ask to view photographic samples

A competent cosmetic dentist will have many before and after images available of all the services they offer for your viewing. You will want to see successful results on cases similar to yours. Skilled cosmetic dentists are proficient with photography and use it daily for documentation.

Do ask about the process

You will want to know the steps involved to create a beautiful and functional smile that meets your goals. Do the dentist and team take time to listen to your desires and budget needs? Is there a plan to create custom temporaries to allow you to wear a prototype of your new smile and make revisions? How will follow up occur to make sure the restorations look and feel like natural teeth? How long should the restorations last, and what maintenance is involved?

Do find out about the dentist’s experience

You will want to know the dentist has many years of experience treating cases like yours and dealing with the biology and emotional aspects of appearance change. Authentic testimonials, advanced education, peer reviews and credentials all attest to the doctor’s experience. The doctor and team should be comfortable describing how his or her experience will impact your result.

Do ask about the doctor’s education

Skilled dentists are continually upgrading their skills and knowledge through advanced education. Cosmetic techniques are usually not taught in dental school and require much time and monetary investment to learn. High-end centers of learning are available in cosmetic dentistry, but they require time and money to attend. Ask about the dentist’s advanced cosmetic education.

Do determine if the dentist has genuine credentials

Skilled cosmetic dentists receive credentials for proving their skills clinically and with written and oral exams, such as accreditation by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). Others include Fellowship in the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry and Mastership in the Academy of General Dentistry. Determine that credentials are authentic and not purchased. Seek a cosmetic dentist with credentials or who is on their journey to obtain credentials.


[publishpress_authors_data]'s professional advice to ExpertBeacon readers: Don't

Do not have unrealistic expectations

A qualified dentist can work wonders transforming your smile but cannot make the “Wicked Witch of the West” look like a Disney princess. Nature has given us gifts and limitations to work within. Don’t treatment plan your own case, but allow your doctor of choice the freedom to create a beautiful design to accomplish your goals.

Do not expect to look the same

After a smile makeover, you may need to adjust to a new appearance with longer, whiter or straighter teeth. Many feel they do not look like themselves and experience an emotional response. Be prepared for the change in the mirror.

Do not expect too much of the doctor’s time

Each dentist will design a New Patient Exam or Cosmetic Analysis to fulfill the needs of most patients. Be respectful that the doctor must see other scheduled patients after your appointment time is completed.

Do not believe everything you read on the web

It is quite easy to use images of dentistry not performed by the owner of the website. Many list memberships in professional organizations long ago expired and promise expertise that just does not exist. Go in with your eyes wide open and authenticity should be apparent.

Do not focus too much on cost

Quality dentistry lasts many years and should be viewed as a lifetime investment in health and appearance. Most offices provide extended payment arrangements and a variety of payment options. Be realistic that a smile makeover is a significant cost.


Summary

Choose your cosmetic dentist wisely. You should be comfortable enough with the doctor and team to spend time together designing and building the smile of your dreams. Come to your appointment prepared to ask appropriate questions. Remember, you are developing a long-term relationship with your oral health care team. Enjoy sharing your new smile with the world.

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