Choosing a cosmetic dentist isn't like choosing a regular family dentist. When you are selecting a family dentist, you are most concerned about your dental health. You want to know that your dentist can take care of cavities and routine dental matters that your family may need. However, cosmetic dentistry is more involved-it involves the aesthetics of your smile.
Selecting a Cosmetic Dentist
Cosmetic dentistry is mainly about making your smile beautiful; it isn't truly about correcting functional dental problems. Although cosmetic dentists do address dental issues while beautifying your smile, that is done as a secondary effect-the main effect is to make you look good.
It isn't always simple to choose a cosmetic dentist because there are no standards of accreditation or guidelines of study through which dental professionals must pass in order to become cosmetic dentists. Any dentist can call himself a 'cosmetic dentist,' regardless of whether or not he has the necessary experience. So, it is up to you to do some research to make sure you are choosing a dentist who really does have cosmetic dentistry experience.
Your first step in selecting a cosmetic dentist will be to get some referral names. Ask your family dentist for some names of cosmetic dentists whom he trusts. Or, ask friends, family members, or colleagues for the names of the cosmetic dental professionals whom they visit. After obtaining a few names, arrange for consultation visits at these dental offices.
At the Consultation Visit
While you are at the cosmetic dentist office, you will need to accomplish two goals. One you can do while in the waiting room; the other will be accomplished as you meet with the cosmetic dentist.
- Before and After Photos: While you are waiting to see the cosmetic dentist, look for a photo album or other book of photographs of former patients who have been treated at that dental office. (If you do not see such a book, ask for one.) Look at both the quality and the quantity of the photos. If the dentist has only a few photographs, he may not have performed many cosmetic dental procedures.
- Asking Questions: When you meet with the cosmetic dentist, you will need to ask a great number of questions in order to determine if this particular dentist is right for you. Ask about his qualifications, how long he has been in practice, and about what procedures he would recommend for you.
