How to Find a Cosmetic Dentist
Because bismarck cosmetic dentistry is not a dental specialty that is recognized by the American Dental Association, any dentist can label their practice a cosmetic dentistry practice. Many cosmetic dentists have certain procedures that they perform routinely, building expertise, and most cosmetic dentists continue to learn about advances in materials and technologies in the cosmetic dentistry world. It’s up to you to research prospective cosmetic dentists if you’re thinking about treating a problem with the appearance of your smile; with a little legwork, you can ensure that you’ll get optimal results.
The best way to start looking for a cosmetic dentist is to ask for referrals. If you know people who’ve had cosmetic dental procedures, ask them who did their work and how they feel about the experience. Ask your own dentist for a recommendation, and don’t be afraid to ask other reputable dentists for recommendations, too. Online reviews can be helpful, too, but remember that they’re highly subjective and written by strangers; don’t make your decision based on one bad review in a sea of positive ones. While any dentist can claim to be a cosmetic dentist, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry credentials dentists who exhibit consistent ability, have experience and long-term success, and maintain continuing education throughout their career. Look for AACD accreditation to ensure the baseline qualifications of your cosmetic dentist.
Don’t be afraid to call dental offices to ask questions if the information you’re seeking isn’t on their website. Ask about continuing education, and ask how many years of experience the dentist has with your specific procedure, and with cosmetic procedures in general. Skilled, successful cosmetic dentists are proud of their work, as they should be; most cosmetic dentists have galleries of their work that include before-and-after pictures of past patients. Sometimes, less-reputable cosmetic dentists might use retouched photos, and stock photographs are also available, so don’t be afraid to ask the dentist for the names and information of some referral patients you can call and talk to yourself.
If you schedule a consultation with a cosmetic dentist, make a list of questions before you go, and make sure to address all questions. Listen closely to the dentist’s recommendations, but don’t be afraid to address any challenges they pose for you. Explain your needs clearly and be honest about your limitations or concerns. Also, trust your instincts: if you feel comfortable in the dentist’s office, that’s a good sign that you’ll enjoy your experience, so pay attention to the things that matter to you, like people’s personalities and the office’s general feel.
If cost is an issue for you, try not to choose the cheapest cosmetic dentist. If a cosmetic dentist’s treatment is notably less expensive than others in the same area, research that dentist with caution; if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Because cosmetic dentistry combines the art of aesthetics with the technology of dentistry, it is a skill that grows with experience and continuing education, and cosmetic dentistry procedures may cost more than other dental procedures. Most reputable cosmetic dentists will work with patients to decide on a treatment option that works for each patient’s budget, and many cosmetic dentistry practices offer financing options or work with other organizations for third-party financing.
