While cosmetic dentistry procedures are generally believed to be aesthetic, they also carry a variety of restorative and preventive benefits. Teeth that are crooked, out of line, or uneven can make it uncomfortable or difficult to eat, and at times, these issues can cause speech impediments and lower a person’s self-esteem. It is important to be confident that any money spent to fix a concern with either the look or function of the mouth will provide the desired results. If you are one of the millions of people considering cosmetic dental treatments, you should plan to do some research to find a qualified professional.
Take some time to prioritize your needs before searching for a cosmetic dentist to ensure you find a professional who meets your requirements.
Ask trusted friends and family members for recommendations if they have had cosmetic procedures performed. Other dentists can also provide referrals. Online reviews are another source of information regarding professionals in your area.
Skilled cosmetic dentists are proud to show before and after photos of their work. Check the dentist's "smile gallery" on the website. Are the photos original or does the dentist use purchased stock photography? Look for actual patient names posted near the picture or the use of the phrase "actual patient." Ask the dentist to see actual patient photos if you are not sure.
Glowing referrals and impressive photographs are good signs, but appropriate credentials are also important. Look online for information about your dentist's college degrees and licensing, continuing education, and professional organizations. Authenticate the school the provider graduated from and do some research about its dental program.
The number of years in practice is important to know when evaluating your cosmetic dentistry options. It would help if you looked for a dentist who devotes a large percentage of their practice to cosmetic dentistry, with preference given to those with a significant volume of cosmetic procedures performed. You can also check with the state board to inquire about any complaints lodged against a provider over the years. You want a positive experience based on years of quality service.
A good cosmetic dentist will answer your questions with honesty and transparency rather than trying to give you a sales pitch. Here are some questions to focus on during your consultation.
You should ask about the costs of the procedures you are interested in during an initial consultation so there are no surprises afterward. This is the time to ask about insurance and financing options as well. Ask for an itemized breakdown of the procedure and costs associated with each step. See if there are any discounts for paying in full or for a cash payment.
Cost is not the only criteria you should use when evaluating your cosmetic dentist. Sometimes dentists who charge the least have less training and use lower-quality materials and inferior laboratories. Ask your potential dentist about the quality of materials used and the typical lifespan for these materials if you follow the recommended hygiene and maintenance practices.
Ask about all options available for the outcomes you are looking for. A quality cosmetic dentist will be patient-focused and honest, offering several alternatives that you can choose from based on your needs. Some procedures are multi-step processes, but depending on the desired result, there may be a lesser involved plan that delivers a similar look.
Ask for an honest estimation of how long the results of your chosen procedure will last. Find out about the requirements for maintenance and whether there will be a need for future procedures and ongoing costs. Make sure to ask about processes or treatments that do not work or that fail prematurely. Find out about the responsibility of the provider to correct those issues or to provide restorative services and the cost involved.
While there are a number of factors to consider in your search for a cosmetic dentistry professional, the bottom line is finding someone who makes you feel valued and comfortable. Friends and family can provide personal experience recommendations, and images and online reviews will reveal the nature of the services provided. Looking into the education and experience can provide further confidence in the skills and abilities of the provider. Thoroughly research a cosmetic dentist before making your choice.
Request an appointment here: https://brimhalldentalgroup.com or call Brimhall Dental Group at (661) 249-1122 for an appointment in our Bakersfield office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Cosmetic Dentistry in Bakersfield, CA.
Cosmetic dentistry is a great way to improve your smile by addressing imperfections in your teeth. By learning more about your cosmetic dentistry procedure options, you and your dentist can put together a treatment plan to reach the goals you have for your smile.There are many types of cosmetic dentistry treatments available to patients, and…
In cosmetic dentistry, there are all kinds of approaches used to improve smiles, but porcelain veneers happen to be one of the most popular. Continue reading to learn more. Over the years as dental technology has improved, so have the techniques and approaches that are used to keep the teeth healthy and attractive.Porcelain veneers are…
Patients investing in a new smile want assurances that the experiences with the cosmetic dentist chosen will be positive and successful. The wrong choice can sometimes lead to embarrassing results, unnecessary pain, and tremendous financial expense. Oral health and a brilliant, beautiful smile should not be jeopardized by an inexperienced choice in a cosmetic dental…
Usually, when adults lose their teeth, implant-supported dentures are a practical and effective cosmetic dentistry option to restore their smile and oral health. The dentures can be designed to feel, function and look like natural teeth, and are perhaps the most reliable option for complete tooth loss. This type of dentures helps preserve the aesthetics…
There are various options for straightening teeth. Invisalign® for teens is a popular option for this age group, as it is less obvious than traditional metal braces. Invisalign consists of clear trays that fit over the top and bottom rows of teeth. This straightening method has many benefits. However, not everyone is a good candidate.…
It is easy to understand why Invisalign® for teens is such a popular teeth-straightening treatment. It removes the need for traditional braces that can be cumbersome, conspicuous, and sometimes painful. Parents and teens alike should find out all they can about Invisalign® treatment before making the decision to proceed.If you are not sure what to…