A Guide to Choosing the Right Cosmetic Dentist

When looking to transform your smile, you want the best results possible. Working with the wrong cosmetic dentist can result in unnecessary discomfort, unnatural results, embarrassment, and even trauma to your mouth.

Since most cosmetic procedures aren’t invasive, any dentist can typically claim to perform them. It is even more challenging to identify the right dentist for your smile. In this article, we have highlighted vital tips to ensure you work with a competent and qualified dentist for a perfect smile.

How do you find the right dentist?

If you don’t know any cosmetic dentist, consider the following tips:

• • Speak to your regular dentist

Your regular dentist can offer minor cosmetic dental treatments like teeth whitening, dental bonding, and enameloplasty. Even if they don’t provide cosmetic treatments, they most likely know reputable cosmetic dentists in the area, and they can refer them to you. Still, research the dentist to ensure they are right for you.

• • Get referrals

One of your friends or family members has likely had a cosmetic treatment. If they are satisfied with their cosmetic treatments and the results look realistic, consider using the same cosmetic dentist.

• • Perform a local Google Search

Google is typically the quickest way to know about anything, including finding a cosmetic dentist in your locality. A quick google search will outline a couple of cosmetic offices near you. You might also see their previous customers and how they rate their experience. We offer cosmetic dentistry in Brookline, MA.

• • Refer to your insurance provider of professional organizations

Accredited organizations like the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry often have a directory for all the dentists accredited through the organization.

Most insurance companies also offer an online catalog of dentists. You can pinpoint dentists that take your insurance and provide cosmetic treatments. Keep in mind that many dental insurances don’t cover elective procedures. Some cosmetic treatments are optional and don’t have medical benefits.

Tips for Choosing the Best Cosmetic Dentist

Now that you have a list of potential cosmetic dentists, use the following steps to narrow down your list to the best dentist:

• • Check their certification and credentials

While any dentist can claim to be a cosmetic dentist even when they aren’t, it’s essential to check whether the dentist has the proper cosmetic dentistry credentials. You want to ensure they have completed their post-graduate training and have the right skills to perform the desired cosmetic procedures. Check to see if they have a membership to trusted associations like the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

• • Check their practice in cosmetic dentistry

You want to work with a dentist primarily focusing on cosmetic dentistry. They devoted much of their experience to cosmetic dentistry and thus have adequate expertise in cosmetic dentistry. In this case, they are likely to offer better results than dentists with less experience in cosmetic dentistry.

• • Check their location and office hours

Driving an hour or more to get to a cosmetic dentist isn’t reasonable when you can find good alternatives nearby. Since you may need multiple trips for your treatment, consider a cosmetic dentist whose location and office hours are convenient.

• • Check their payment plans

Most elective cosmetic treatments aren’t covered by insurance so some dentists may provide unrealistic payment demands. Consider working with a dentist who accepts your card or provides a realistic payment plan, preferably spread out over several weeks or months.

• • Make a trial visit

Since you may need to see your dentist several times, you want to ensure the office atmosphere is comfortable, clean, and inviting. The dentist should also be friendly and comfortable to speak with. If you are uncomfortable with the dentist or office atmosphere, it’s best to consider another dentist.

• • Review their before-and-after photos

Most dentists will show you models or images of how your smile will look after your treatment. You can also ask to see the before-and-after photos of their previous customers. That will give a better idea of what to expect. You have a reason to be wary if they don’t provide any photos. It’s best to consider the next dentist on the list.

• • Inquire about anesthesia and technology

You may want to ensure that the anesthetic, sedation, and technology used on you aren’t outdated, stressful, or uncomfortable. You can ask the dentist about their technology, like X-rays, computer-guided surgeries, laser technology, etc.

Are you looking for a cosmetic dentist near you?

Are you ready to transform your smile with cosmetic dentistry? Contact Dental Partners of Brookline to book your appointment today.