Top 10 Reasons for choosing a Cosmetic Dentist
Deciding on a cosmetic dentist is your first and possibly most important step in getting the wonderful smile you’ve always wanted. 96% of Americans feel an attractive smile makes a person more appealing to a member of the opposite sex, according to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. With every dentist out there claiming that they perform cosmetic dentistry, it’s difficult to determine who is right for you. Here are some things to think about when choosing your “cosmetic” dentist.
1. SPECIALTY / EXPERTISE
- Look for a dentist who specializes in cosmetic dentistry in their practice. Obviously, the more cases a dentist has done, the more likely he or she will deliver excellent results for you.
2. SMILE MAKEOVERS / BEFORE & AFTER GALLERY
– Photos are crucial. Make sure that the dentist you are considering has a lot of photography of their work. Before and after pictures are essential for evaluating the level of performance you can expect from that dentists’ work. Here is an example of a Smile Makeover Gallery
3. EDUCATION
- Scant amounts of cosmetic dentistry are actually taught by dental schools. Make sure to ask for and view post-graduate credentials when selecting your cosmetic dentist. Have they obtained credentials through post-graduate institutions? Which ones? Find out and research those institutions if possible. What membership affiliations do they have? What is the focus of their continuing education?
4. TESTIMONIALS
- Testimonials on a website are great, but it’s even better to have patients you could call and discuss their dental experience. Other patients can sometimes give you a better idea of what to expect before, during and after treatment. The dentist should be proud to give you a list of his “raving fans” to call.
5. FACILITIES / TECHNOLOGY / OVERALL CUSTOMER SERVICE
- Have a look around the office. This is your opportunity to see the equipment, ask questions about available technology and procedures, and check out the sterilization areas. This is also your opportunity to assess the environment, and the people who will be working with you. While hygiene obviously comes first, it’s all the better if the environment is pleasant and relaxing, and the staff are calm and cheerful as well.
6. COMFORT & CONVENIENCE
– It is important that you get a sense of honesty and be able to have a frank and candid conversation with your cosmetic dentist. You will be spending some time with the dentist you choose, so you need to feel very comfortable with and confident in them.
7. SPECIALIZED DENTAL TEAM:
- If you are seeking the best cosmetic dentistry possible, make sure your dentist has an experienced master ceramist and anesthesiologist for dental implant procedures. The level of training of these people is equally as important as that of the cosmetic dentist. They will work as a team to create the smile you’ve been dreaming of.
8. PAYMENT / TREATMENT PLANS
– You should expect to see and hear of a variety of options when consulting with a cosmetic dentist. During that consultation a dentist may explain or propose to you their “ideal” treatment and then suggest a variety of other possible options. Options are important because ultimately you know yourself best, and are responsible for your own decisions. Information should be provided about fees and payment plans before treatment is scheduled.
9. POST OPERATIVE CARE
- Make sure that there are special arrangements made for handling post operative care and/or emergencies outside of office hours. Most dentists make arrangements with a colleague or emergency referral service if they are unable to tend to emergencies.
10. ACCREDITED BY THE ADA
- All ADA member dentists voluntarily agree to abide by the high ethical standards reflected in the ADA Principles of Ethics and Code of Professional Conduct as a condition of their membership.
If you’re interested in learning how cosmetic dentistry can give you a new, natural-looking smile, call our office at (408)272-3330 and (510) 792-9292 or email us at info@pannudental.com for a consultation! We’d love nothing more than to help you discover a confidence in your smile that you’ve never known before.
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