How to Find a Cosmetic Dentist
Cosmetic dentistry is literally about your perception. It is really about either restoring or improving your natural smile. A cosmetic dentist may consider themselves an artist. It requires both time and skill and may cost more than a general dentistry procedure. We will explain the five major cosmetic dental procedures and some possible criteria to consider when searching for a cosmetic dentist. Many dental practices might offer a few of the procedures, but you should still do your homework, so you know you are getting the best treatment to provide the best results.
Research has proven that your smile is an intricate contributor to your personality. It is the foundation for both your self-esteem and your self-confidence. Since it is difficult to put a numerical value on the quality of your smile, it is also necessary that you do not rush into a procedure.
The Five Major Cosmetic Dental Procedures
The most popular and common cosmetic process to improve your smile is teeth whitening. You can achieve this at home over months with an over-the-counter kit, or you can have it done professionally with just one visit. Removing unsightly stains and discoloration will make a dramatic improvement and can also be done on a regular basis. A dental veneer procedure requires specific training. Wafer-thin pieces of porcelain or ceramic are custom-designed in a dental lab and are cemented to the front surface of a tooth. This process covers defects such as chips or cracks. Dental bonding provides much the same results, but has your dentist applying a putty-like resin on the surface of the tooth and sculpting, smoothing, and hardening the material. Inlays and onlays are very much like a filling. A composite resin will cover up an area that has decay removed to improve the aesthetics of a tooth. Dental implants are the new gold standard available now if you need to replace a tooth. The cosmetic dentist surgically places a tiny titanium post into your jawbone. Once this post has integrated into the bone, an extension or abutment is added to the post, so it reaches your gumline. An artificial crown is affixed to the extension, and you now have a restoration that looks and functions like a natural tooth.
Criteria to Find a Cosmetic Dentist
Here are a few suggestions when you start your research. You can begin with your family dentist whom you trust. They can either provide the procedure or give you a referral. You can ask family or friends for a trustworthy referral. Do not hesitate to ask about their training, continuing education, and their current credentials. Ask if they are a member of the AACD (American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry). If they enjoy their work and are proud of it, you can ask to see before and after photos of prior procedures. Ask questions; you need to find your comfort zone. Do not rush through a consultation. You should also ask about expected costs and how long the procedure will take. Remember, this is your smile. Create value in that smile.