How to Choose the Appropriate Cosmetic Dentist

It is generally accepted, in fact recommended by the American Dental Association (www.ada.org) that you see your dentist twice a year for a routine exam and cleaning. What should you do, however, when you want cosmetic improvements made to your teeth and mouth? Is your doctor up to the task? Are all dentists the same?

All dentists must attend dental school, and are generally able to care for your oral health needs. However, not all dentists are trained and qualified to perform cosmetic procedures such as inlays, onlays, bonding, whitening, veneers, and implants. These types of procedures take additional years of training beyond basic dental school. Your doctor may take excellent care of your teeth and gums and yet be unable to meet your expectations when it comes to improving the actual look of your mouth overall.

Before you decide what you want to have done to your teeth and mouth, make a list of the areas you would like to see fixed. Do you want your teeth to be whiter? Do you have gaps that you would like to see remedied? Are you looking for a drastic change or one that is more subtle? Having these things determined before your initial consultation will help you answer the questions you might be asked and will also give you a springboard from which to interview the doctor you are considering.

If you are considering having some improvements made to your smile, you should first consult with the dentist that currently provides your oral care. He might actually have the additional training and expertise needed to make the changes you desire. If he does not, he may be able to recommend a colleague that does. Another resource for finding a cosmetic dentist is the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (www.aacd.com). The AACD has a locator tool on their website that will help you find a practitioner in your local area. The website also notes the level of training that each doctor has had, and that can be very helpful in making your decision.

Once you have narrowed your search, you may find it helpful to interview a few of your choices. Also, it is a good idea to ask for references and conduct a Google search on your own to seek for reviews and recommendations. Keep in mind that many online reviews tend to be negative, so weigh the reviews carefully and make that only part of your decision making process.

After you have decided on a cosmetic dentist, get ready to have your mouth transformed! Most of the doctors that practice dentistry in this manner have one goal: your satisfaction. While those that practice general dentistry are concerned for the oral health of their patients, dentistry that focuses on physical appearance brings out a certain passion from the doctor. Your satisfaction is their ultimate reward.

One important thing to remember is to take good care of your teeth and gums. Unhealthy mouths are generally not good candidates for elective procedures. Just like a tummy tuck is ineffective on someone who is obese, tooth improvements do nothing to improve your general oral health.