Dental Care for All of Us

How can you choose the right cosmetic dentist for your needs? Before you pick a practice, take a look at the questions to ask yourself and your future dentist.

What Type of Dental Procedure Do You Want?

The first step in your cosmetic dentistry office search is to decide whether you really need to see a specialist. If you only need a routine cleaning or a filling, a general dental practice will meet your needs. But if you want or need a complex cosmetic-based procedure, choose a dentist with extra training and experience.

Some of the most common cosmetic procedures that require a specialized provider include in-office whitening, tooth-colored crowns and other major dental restorations, dental implants, inlays and onlays, veneers, and dental bonding. While some general dentists will perform these procedures, a cosmetic specialist has the extra training necessary to achieve the best results possible.

Talk to your would-be potential dentist about the types of procedures they offer and how they can meet your needs. If possible, ask the dentist to provide you with before/after photos of similar types of procedures or restorations. These pictures can give you a better idea of the dentist's skill level and what you can expect from their services.

What Procedures Might You Want in the Future?

You've talked to the dentist and now know they can provide you with the cosmetic care you need right now. But what about future restorations or other procedures? You don't want to start your specialist search from scratch a year or two from now. Make sure the dentist you select for this procedure can also accommodate other options you may want to add in the future.

What Do You Need in a Dental Practice?

Some cosmetic procedures require multiple office visits. You may need a consultation, initial appointment, follow-up, or other visits to the office. To make the most of multiple office visits, you need to feel comfortable with the practice's staff and procedures. Before you choose one cosmetic practice, ask questions to confirm hours, communication options, and anything else that's important to you.

The practice should have hours that are convenient for you. Ask about the hours the office is open/closed, emergency hours, and whether they have weekend appointments or not. Along with appointment scheduling hours, find out more information on how the staff will communicate with you. This could include phone calls, texts, or emails. Use these tips to find a cosmetic dentist.