Cosmetic Dentist Near Me
There are ten specific categorical branches of dentistry. Specialty classifications that the dentist spends additional time training in after college. Cosmetic dentistry is recognized as one of these specific divisions. Although the ADA (American Dental Association) does not specifically recognize a cosmetic dentist. Therefore, many general dentists will also claim to be cosmetic dentists. To confuse the issue further, of the five primary cosmetic dental procedures, your general dentist does several of them. Let us identify those common cosmetic procedures, and then identify some questions when attempting to find a cosmetic dentist near you.
The Five Major Cosmetic Dental Procedures
Cosmetic dentistry is actually more about perception. It is a treatment that will either restore your natural smile or improve your smile. Your smile is a unique and invaluable asset. It can be foundational to your personality and influence your level of self-esteem and self-confidence. When you are considering one of these procedures, make sure your dentist shares both your concerns and your goals.
- Teeth Whitening- This is the most common and frequent procedure. Having this done professionally in your dental office will immediately provide stunning results. Red wine, colas, and tobacco all create stains and discoloration. Your teeth will look healthy again, naturally sparkling white.
- Dental Bonding- The dentist positions a putty-like composite resin on the front surface of a tooth and sculpts, shapes, and smooths the resin out. Once hardened with an ultraviolet light, it will cover any chips or cracks and make the tooth look healthy again.
- Dental Veneers- Taking the bonding approach to the next level, the dental veneer is a wafer-thin piece of porcelain or ceramic custom-fabricated in a dental lab specifically for that particular tooth. Once cemented into place, the tooth will look new again.
- Dental Crown- The crown acts more like a protective cap covering the entire tooth, not just the front. This can be either a cosmetic procedure or a logistical one, saving a tooth that has just gone through a root canal procedure.
- Dental Implants- The new gold standard for a tooth replacement, the cosmetic dentist surgically places a tiny titanium post in the jawbone where the tooth is missing. After this post has fused and bonded to the bone, an extension is added to reach the gumline surface, and an artificial crown is affixed to the post. You cannot tell this replacement from the natural tooth.
Questions to Ask in Locating a Cosmetic Dentist Near You
You can start with your family dentist, who has earned your trust. They might have already done several of these procedures. If not, they will suggest a referral through a professional relationship. You can also ask a family member or a friend. Once you have identified a dental office, begin by asking for the training acquired regarding your proposed treatment. You can ask about their accreditation with the AACD (American Association of Cosmetic Dentistry). If they understand your visual goal behind the procedure, they might have before-and-after photos of prior patients. Monitor your comfort zone in the office and continue to ask questions. Do not rush through any consultation. This is about your smile and your effort in achieving a healthy restoration.