How to Find a Cosmetic Dentist
Cosmetic dentistry is basically about your own perception. It is about either restoring or improving your healthy, natural smile. A cosmetic dentist might consider themselves somewhat of an artist. It requires both time and a certain skill and might cost more than a general dentistry procedure. Let us identify the five major cosmetic dental procedures and some criteria to consider when searching for a cosmetic dentist. Many dental practices may offer several of the procedures, but you still need to do your homework, so you are comfortable that you are getting the best treatment, providing the best results.
Research has proven that your smile is a fundamental contributor to your personality. It is the absolute foundation for both your self-confidence and your self-esteem. Since it is very subjective to put a dollar value on the quality of your smile, it is also wise not rush into a procedure and not get the expected results that you want to use your smile to share.
The Five Major Cosmetic Dental Procedures
A very popular and common cosmetic procedure to improve your smile is simple teeth whitening. You can accomplish this at home over several months with an over-the-counter retail kit, or you can have the procedure done professionally by your dentist with just one visit. Removing stains and discoloration will make a dramatic impact and can also be repeated on a regular basis. A dental veneer cosmetic procedure requires specific training. Extremely thin pieces of porcelain or ceramic are custom-created in a dental lab and are adhered to the front surface of a tooth. This process will cover defects like chips or cracks. Dental bonding provides similar results but has your dentist simply applying a putty-like resin on the tooth and shaping, sculpting, smoothing, and hardening the material. Inlays and onlays are much like a dental filling. A composite resin covers up a specific area that has had decay removed to improve the visual aesthetics of a tooth. Dental implants have become the new gold standard available if you need to replace a tooth. The cosmetic dentist surgically positions a tiny titanium post into your jawbone. After this post has been integrated into the bone, an extension or abutment is placed on the post to reach your gumline. An artificial crown is permanently affixed to the extension, and you now have a restoration that both looks and functions like a natural tooth.
Criteria to Find a Cosmetic Dentist
Here are several suggestions when you begin your research. You might begin with your family dentist, whom you have developed trust in. They can either perform the procedure or give you a positive referral. You could ask family or friends for a trustworthy referral. Do not hesitate to ask the dental office about their training, continuing education, and current credentials. Inquire if they are a member of the AACD, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. If they both enjoy their work and are proud of it, you could ask to see before and after photos of previous procedures. Ask questions; you need to define your comfort zone. Do not rush through the consultation. You can also ask about projected costs and how long the procedure might take. Remember, it is your smile. Create your own value in that smile.
Related Article: Cosmetic Dentist Near Me