The Right Dentist For Your Smile

Dental visits are no longer just about cleaning the teeth, treating oral pain or maintaining dental health. More and more people go to a dentist to enhance their appearance with a bright and beautiful smile. The treatments can vary from lightening the color of the teeth or changing the size/alignment of the teeth to filling spaces between the teeth, replacing missing teeth and much more. Cosmetic dentists can provide various options like fillings, crowns, veneers and implants to give patients their dream Hollywood smiles.

However, the results you require can become real and look natural only in the hands of a qualified and experienced cosmetic dentist. Following are a few pointers on how to choose the right dentist for your needs:

• Credentials and accreditations — A bit of diligent research — online as well as based on recommendations — will give you a clear picture of the dentist’s background, education, training and experience. Make sure that the dentist is properly qualified and performs cosmetic dental treatments on a regular basis. You can check the dentist’s website or even call up the office to get information on the dentist’s qualifications, licensing, practice history, etc. Make it a point to read online reviews to ascertain the dentist’s reputation, patient satisfaction and claims records. Also ascertain if the dentist has professional affiliations and stays updated with ongoing education.
• Logistics — Everything from the location of the dental clinic and office hours to the fees and payment options matter here. As the cosmetic dental treatment may require multiple visits, the office should be within a comfortable distance and timings suitable to your schedule. You will require flexible payment options as most cosmetic dental enhancements are not covered by regular insurance.
• Meeting with the dentist — Arranging an initial consultation will give you the opportunity to evaluate the cleanliness and functionality of the dentist’s office and friendliness of the staff. During the meeting, discuss your dental concerns or requirements even as you pay careful attention to the dentist’s behavior. You are looking for someone who is approachable and takes the time to explain the procedures and other details. Be especially wary if the dentist is not responsive or seems to rush the appointment. Personal comfort with the dentist is imperative.
• Before and after — Request for pictures of the dentist’s prior work and check if the results look natural or not. Look out for cases similar to yours and inspect the quality of work very carefully.
• Technology — Inquire if the dentist uses the latest technology and equipment to perform the cosmetic dental treatments. Check if the tools are cleaned and maintained properly. Also find out about the anesthesia used during the treatment and how it will affect you.

In sum, cosmetic dental enhancements are not something you should decide in a hurry. Taking the time to research and locate the right dentist will ensure you get the perfect Hollywood smile you always wanted!