7 Questions to Ask Your Dentist About Cosmetic Dentistry

Looking to improve your smile in 2020? Begin your search by typing “best cosmetic dentist” before choosing the one who’s right for you. During those visits, ask the right questions to learn about the dentist’s qualifications and experience and which treatments may help you reach your smile goals.

To schedule an appointment with our cosmetic dentist, contact our friendly and caring team today.

Be sure to ask your candidate dentist these seven questions about cosmetic dentistry:

1. Which cosmetic solutions do you offer?

Not all dentists offer the same services. Even if you don’t realize it now, your smile may require multiple cosmetic procedures. If that’s the case, you won’t want to switch dentists in the middle of treatment. Find a dentist that offers these cosmetic dental solutions:

• Invisalign® clear, removable orthodontic braces
• Porcelain veneers
• Teeth whitening – at home and/or in-office options
• White crowns – all-porcelain, porcelain fused to metal (PFM), and/or zirconium
• Dental implants – does the dentist place or just restore the implants?
• Dental bonding and contouring

In various combinations, these treatments can fix any cosmetic dental problem.

2. What qualifications do you have?

As with most professionals, cosmetic dentists aren’t born, they’re created. Through schooling, training, hands-on experience, and continuing education, cosmetic dentists obtain the skills to safely and effectively improve smiles through both simple and complex dental procedures. (Of course, the quality of materials used for restorations are extremely important, as well.)

3. What procedures do you recommend for me?

Based on your research, you most likely have an idea of the cosmetic procedures you want or need, but it’s never a bad idea to get a second (or third) opinion. Ask the dentist generally, which procedures he or she might recommend to someone in your situation. The dentist should explain his or her recommendations concisely.

Please note, the dentist will likely say that he or she can’t make suggestions without performing an exam. That’s fine, but generally speaking, he or she should be able to tell you which services would meet the needs that you’ve described.

4. How much experience do you have?

Even novice dentists obtain plenty of experience during their years of school and training. Ask the candidate dentist how many times he or she has performed the procedures you may need. You should also ask to see before and after pictures, to view the dentist’s quality of work. Note that you can probably read the doctor’s bio and view before and after photos on the dental practice’s website, even before you attend an appointment.

5. What are the pros and cons of cosmetic procedures?

Most cosmetic procedures cannot be undone. Because of this, you’ll want to know the advantages and disadvantages of the procedure, as well as potential risks.

Your dentist should explain the realistic results, the benefits you’ll enjoy, and any complications you may experience after the procedure.

Don’t be afraid of this question! You can trust your dentist to make the best decision for your smile. While there may be possible risks and complications, you need to choose a dentist you trust – one who will do everything possible to reduce your risks and improve the potential for success.

6. What are my payment options?

Insurance does not cover cosmetic dentistry. Thankfully, many dentists offer other payment options.

For instance, Dr. Cureton offers financing through CareCredit so that you can begin treatment as soon as possible and make affordable, no-interest or low-interest payments over an extended time His office also accepts payments from health savings accounts (HSAs) and most major credit cards.

7. How long will my results last?

Procedures like dental bonding and teeth whitening have a much shorter lifespan than procedures like dental implants (which can last a lifetime).

Ask your dentist about the specific procedures you’re interested in. This may help you decide which treatment or treatments to choose.

For most cosmetic procedures, your oral health is a defining factor in how long the results will last. Always maintain good oral hygiene to ensure you get the most longevity out of your cosmetic dental procedure(s).

Schedule an Initial Consultation

To begin your journey towards a more beautiful smile, schedule an initial consultation with us today.

To meet with our experienced cosmetic dentist, call 831-800-2505.