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How to Choose a Cosmetic Dentist

Authored By: Greg Johnstone

• Cosmetic Dentistry Basics
• Frequently Asked Cosmetic Dentistry Questions

Finding a qualified cosmetic dentist requires careful consideration. There is no referral system in place or third party insurance administrator involvement to assist with the selection of a cosmetic dentist.

With an increasing number of dentists offering cosmetic dentistry, a variety of procedures to choose from, and the possible need for inter-disciplinary care before receiving cosmetic dentistry treatment, your choices can be staggering.

Pre-Consultation Considerations

• Your general dentist’s recommendation is a primary consideration. If you have been receiving regular dental hygiene check ups, your general dentist has a picture of the current status and condition of your mouth. If your dentist finds that your teeth, gums, supporting bone structure and occlusion (bite) is in need of further evaluation prior to cosmetic dentistry, he or she may refer you to a periodontist, prosthodontist, endodontist, orthodontist, or oral maxillofacial surgeon. The condition of your teeth, gums, supporting bone structure and occlusion has an impact on the longevity of cosmetic dental procedures. You may require treatment for these conditions before cosmetic treatment begins. In some cases a full mouth reconstruction may be part of your cosmetic dentistry treatment.
• Ask your friends, neighbors, and business colleagues who have undergone a smile makeover whom they would recommend.
• Before you set up a consultation with a cosmetic dentist, make sure you investigate their level of experience in cosmetic dentistry, including their participation and level of accreditation in organizations such as the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, which requires adherence to rigorous study, ethical standards and examination to qualify as an accredited member.

What to Expect at your Consultation

When you meet with a cosmetic dentist for a consultation, the following criteria should be considered:

• What is the dentist’s level of experience in cosmetic dentistry, general dentistry, and full mouth reconstruction?
• How long has the dentist been practicing?
• How extensive is the dentist’s practice? Does he / she offer study models, imaging technology, and/or bonding previews for your procedure recommendations?
• Ask to see before-and-after photos of previous patients. Are the results to your liking? Are the photos of actual patients that the dentist has treated?
• Inquire about dental technologies that may be offered in the practice to help serve your dental needs.

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• Inquire about the dental lab technician your dentist plans to involve in your treatment plan. What is the dentist’s relationship and planned means of communication with said technician?
• Inquire about the type of materials that the dentist has selected for your treatment plan.
• Ask about how long the results are expected to last and about the type of maintenance that is required in order to maintain the benefit of the procedures. For example, teeth whitening must be repeated every three to six months depending upon the procedure you choose in order to maintain the benefits; or you may be required to wear a protective guard at night to help maintain your veneers.
• What is the cosmetic dentist’s diagnosis and what treatments are offered / suggested? It is important that you understand the treatment plan and any viable alternatives.
• What is the office ambiance like? Specifically, are you comfortable with the cosmetic dentist’s chair-side manner? Is the staff friendly, welcoming, and quick to address your concerns? Since cosmetic dentistry treatment can take time, it is important to establish a rapport with all individuals involved.
• Ask about special considerations that must be taken for cosmetic dental patients when traveling. For example, if a veneer breaks while you are traveling, you may want to find out which dentists in that area are familiar with the material from which your veneer was made.
• Keep a log of the materials selected for your cosmetic dentistry procedures. This information is valuable should the components used in your procedure fall off or break, and also in case you have an allergic reaction to any of the materials used in the procedure. The risk of an allergic reaction is small. In all cases, it is important to keep your own records with information about the procedure and the types of materials used.
• Ask about patient comforts provided through the practice, such as headphones that provide calming music and comfort chairs.
• Emergencies are unlikely, but do find out what provisions the practice offers. Is the emergency service provided by the dentist or a staff member? Is communication over the phone or in person?
• What are the financing options? While payment plans are available through a number of dental loan providers, your cosmetic dentist may offer in-house payment options as well.

• Cosmetic Dentistry Basics
• Frequently Asked Cosmetic Dentistry Questions

[Updated May 2008]

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