Tips For Choosing a Cosmetic Dentist

What is a cosmetic dentist?

A cosmetic dentist is a restorative dentist who has spent a great deal of time learning about the principles of smile design and dental materials to produce what are essentially works of art. The goal of the cosmetic dentist is to achieve the optimal outcome by the patient’s sense of beauty, which goes beyond just restoring a person’s teeth to their normal function.

Based on considerations including your budget, desired outcomes, and more, a cosmetic dentist can specifically create and prescribe a cosmetic dentistry plan employing one or a combination of these procedures with the end objective of assisting you in maintaining a beautiful, healthy smile for the rest of your life.

Did you know that the America Dental Society doesn’t recognize cosmetic dentistry as a specialty? This might come as a surprise if you’re searching for a dental cosmetic procedure. What it means in essence that any dentist can perform a cosmetic treatment. This is perhaps the more reason you’ll want to be careful when doing research.  Shortlist only reputed clinics like Renew Dental Clinic in Winnipeg and then decide which one to go for.  If it is your first time that you’re looking for such services, we’ve highlighted some tips that will come in handy. Contact a reputable Family Dentist in Scottsdale AZ, to avail of complete and top-of-the-line dental services for the lowest price.

Training

You should start by looking at the training of the dentist that you intend to work with. A good example is with My Dental Home, where the dentists have undergone extensive training. A trained cosmetic dentist will have taken postgraduate courses in cosmetic dental procedures. It means that they’re willing to go through the process backed with the right training to provide the best possible care and treatment for patients.

Recommendations

You should never dismiss the recommendations from friends and family as they could come in handy when you don’t know where to start. Ask them about their experience working with the dentist and if they were satisfied with the service. Were they comfortable during treatment? How easy or hard was it to get along with the dentist? Asking such questions will give you an idea of what you should be expecting from the dentist. For example, if you need a recommendation on cosmetic dental procedures, check out the teeth cleaning services by the Cosmetic dentist Modesto.

Trial Visit

You should never commit to working with a dentist before meeting them in person. That is why the trial visit is important. The reason why the initial consultation meeting is important is so as to establish a rapport with the dentist. Make sure to note down the questions that you’d like to be answered before you go to the dentist’s office.

Get a Dentist That Listens

It is crucial that you’re getting a dentist that will be willing to listen to you. You’ll obviously have in mind the expected outcome with the cosmetic procedure. A good dentist is one who will be honest and upfront about what is possible after listening to your needs. He or she will understand that patients and taking a systemized approach to treatment might not be in your best interest. The dentist should be able to provide different options and the possible outcomes for the procedure.

Comfort

Most people will dread going to the dentist because of the discomfort that is associated with the process. It is crucial that you’re getting a dentist that will make sure that you’re comfortable whenever you visit their offices and also during treatment. It is easy to know if you’ll get along with the dentist when you meet for the first time.

Payment Options

Not a lot of insurance policies will cover cosmetic smile enhancements. That is why you should be looking for a dentist that provides several payment options. Ideally, you should be getting a doctor that is able to accept credit card payment and also accept payment plans. This is because cosmetic dentistry can be expensive depending on the procedure.

Before and After Photos

There is nothing wrong with asking for before and after photos. An experienced dentist should have a gallery of before and photos of the patients they’ve helped achieve a better smile. You’re then able to judge the kind of results you can expect based on the pictures that have been provided.

Location

You should be looking for a dentist that is based in your locality for a couple of reasons. Such a dentist will obviously have a reputation to maintain and wouldn’t want to do anything that could ruin it. It is also easy to schedule an appointment given the proximity of the dentist’s office. There are even dentists that could be willing to do the procedure after working hours so that you’re not being inconvenienced.

Time Requirements

Not every dentist can be fast when it comes to a cosmetic procedure. That is why it is important to ask how long it will take for the cosmetic procedure so that you’re making the necessary arrangements.

Technology

There have been numerous technological advancements in dental care and treatment. Most such technologies are geared with the goal of making treatment more comfortable. You should ask the dentist the kind of technology and anesthesia that is in place.

The Patients Should Be the Center of Attention 

If a patient thinks that their cosmetic dentist is not patient-centered, they should move on to the next potential provider. It is crucial to take into account the aesthetic dentist’s services as well. Avoid trying to utilize every occasion to further the cosmetic dentist’s agenda. The patient ought to be allowed to inquire about the procedure whenever necessary.

The most crucial therapeutic stage is communication. It is critical to keep looking until one locates a cosmetic dentist who is prepared to interact, pay attention, and work with the person’s particular goals in mind.

Get An Estimate of The Costs of Treatment

Obtaining a treatment cost estimate is among the most crucial steps to take while looking for a cosmetic dentist. This will enable you to plan your procedure’s budget and make sure you are getting the most for your money.

A treatment cost estimate can be obtained in a few different methods. You can use an online estimator, schedule a consultation, or contact your dentist for a comprehensive price.

If you decide to get a quote from your dentist, be sure to ask about all aspects of the procedure, including the estimated time required, the number of appointments needed, and any follow-up care that may be necessary.

Scheduling

You want to select one that will fit your hours, depending on your schedule. Do they have any openings at your convenient time? Do they offer care for your entire family?

Individual Preference

Even if a cosmetic dentist satisfies all the standards for a quality service provider, that does not guarantee that they are the best fit for you. The effectiveness of any aesthetic operation depends on your ability to speak comfortably with your dentist. They generally will not be the ideal fit for you in the long run if you feel awkward around them during the initial consultation visit.

Cosmetic dental operations have the power to improve your life, but only if you choose the proper dental practice. Keep in mind to conduct your homework and get the greatest cosmetic dentist you can afford rather than settling for the closest dentist in your region.

Types of Cosmetic Dentistry

Teeth Whitening

One of the easiest and least expensive methods to brighten your smile is to get your teeth whitened. Your dentist can whiten your teeth with in-office equipment for around $500, or you can purchase bleaching gels and mold from him or her to whiten your teeth at home. Additionally, whitening toothpaste, rinses, and Whitestrips are readily accessible over the counter at retail establishments for practical at-home whitening. These goods range in price from $3 to $50 each.  Are you interested in getting teeth whitening services in Saskatoon? Check out Dental House, and experience the amazing results of saskatoon teeth whitening for a brighter and more confident smile!

Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are tiny, meticulously made shells that fit over the front of the teeth and are made of porcelain or resin. After removing a half-millimeter of enamel off the surface of the teeth, these small shells are attached to the front of the teeth, changing their color, form, size, or length. The procedure known as veneers—often referred to as “Hollywood teeth”—can cost between $500 and $1,300 per tooth.

Dental Bonding

dentist wearing facemask and eye protection image

A strong, tooth-colored resin that resembles putty is applied to the tooth during dental bonding, and the bond is then solidified by curing the resin with a laser or ultraviolet light. Your dentist will then trim, shape, and polish it after that. Bonding is a cosmetic alternative to amalgam or silver fillings and can treat decaying, chipped, cracked, or misshapen teeth. Bonding takes between 30 and 60 minutes and costs between $100 and $400 per tooth.

Dental Crown

The whole decaying or damaged tooth above the gum line is covered with a dental crown, also known as a cap, which restores the tooth’s size, shape, strength, and aesthetics. Crowns can be used aesthetically to hide deformed or badly discolored teeth. They prevent weak teeth from shattering or hold a broken tooth together. Crowns range in price from $500 to $900 and can be constructed of metal, porcelain-fused-to-metal, resin, or ceramic.

Inlays and Onlays

woman having dental checkup image

Inlays and onlays, commonly known as indirect fillings, are dental restorations that cover decaying or damaged teeth with gold, porcelain, or composite materials. Inlays and onlays are made in a dental laboratory and cemented into place by your dentist, as opposed to dental fillings, which are molded into place during an office visit. As an alternative to crowns, inlays, and onlays preserve as many healthy teeth as possible. An “inlay” is a filling that is bonded inside the center of a tooth; an “onlay” is filling that extends to one or more of the tooth’s points or the biting surface. The price range for this aesthetic dental surgery is between $650 to $1,200 per tooth.

Dental Implants

dental implants with screw on the table in clinic image

Dental implants are prosthetic titanium tooth roots that are inserted into the bone socket where a missing tooth formerly stood. As the jawbone heals, it develops around the metal post, stabilizing it in the jaw and preparing the area for a new tooth. The price range for this operation is between $1,250 and $3,000.

Other Options

a woman in white clothes holding a denture image

A bridge is made up of crowns for the teeth on each side of the gap and false teeth in the middle. A detachable tooth replacement is called a denture. Dental braces can realign teeth that are crooked or out of place by gradually moving the teeth in the desired direction while exerting constant pressure over time.

What benefits may cosmetic dentistry offer?

Services in cosmetic dentistry can:

  • Boost your smile
  • Brighten dull, stained teeth
  • Enhance the appearance of your teeth
  • Cover up cracks and chips
  • Make your smile symmetrical and in perfect balance
  • Boost your confidence

What are the drawbacks of cosmetic dentistry? 

Insurance often does not cover the expenses of cosmetic dentistry. This is because insurance companies do not view cosmetic operations as being crucial or vital in terms of health.

To keep your smile, you will also need to be committed in some way. Some cosmetic procedures, like porcelain veneers, are permanent and need to be replaced every few years.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should You Watch Out for When Choosing a Cosmetic Dentist?

The most crucial aspects to take into account when picking a cosmetic dentist are board qualification, education and expertise, a solid reputation, and favorable patient testimonials.

How can I tell whether I should visit a cosmetic dentist?

Plan a consultation appointment to find out if a cosmetic dentist is the best choice for you. Ask the dentist about their credentials, education, and experience doing the particular operation you are interested in during the consultation. Inquire as well about the before and after pictures of earlier patients.

What Can I Expect from My Dental Consultation with A Cosmetic Dentist?

A cosmetic dentist will assess your smile and go through your treatment objectives during your appointment. They will also create a special treatment strategy based on your unique requirements. So that you can decide whether or not to continue with therapy, make sure to ask questions and voice any concerns you may have.

Summing it up!

To sum it up, going for a cosmetic is something that you should be looking forward to. That is why it is important that you’re doing due diligence on the dentist that you’ll be working with. Make sure that they have the necessary experience needed for the procedure.