Finding the right cosmetic dentist is one of the most important parts of actually getting the smile you want. If you’re feeling like you’re not exactly sure how to decide which dentist you should choose, this post is for you. So, how do you know which cosmetic dentist is right for you?
Finding the right cosmetic dentist for you is a make or break choice when it comes to the end
result and the quality of your investment.
Consider their before and afters
Do they have an extensive library of before and after photos to show you, or is their website full of stock photos of smiles? If pictures of actual cases aren’t readily available, ask for photos of the exact procedure you are looking to have done. If the dentist can’t provide these, it’s likely they don’t have much experience in that area.
Read their reviews and referrals
Take the time to research the cosmetic dentist you are looking into. Read their online reviews and how they’re responding to them.
Follow them on social media
It’s a good idea to follow the dentists you’re considering on social media for a while. This will give you a chance to see what other people are saying about them and how they interact with the public. You’ll also be able to get a sense of their commitment to patient education and transparency. Most importantly, though, you’ll be able to see their work.
Ask if you get to preview your smile
During the smile design process, your dentist should provide you images or wax-ups of what they expect to produce. You should be able to see the smile and approve it before committing to a treatment plan. If your dentist can’t give you a detailed example of what you can expect, this is a big red flag.
What kind of financing is available?
Budget is a large part of the equation. There is no way of getting around it, especially since insurance doesn’t contribute to the cost of cosmetic procedures. Talk to your dentist about whether they accept credit cards or offer some form of financing.
Do they offer a warranty?
Most cosmetic dentists and dental labs offer some kind of warranty. Have a candid discussion with your dentist about their warranty policy.
Ask what lab and materials they use
The most reputable labs use the highest quality materials and have the best trained ceramicists. The quality of your restorations are imperative to the appearance and longevity of your new smile. Your dentist should be able to set realistic expectations about how long your restorations will last.
Ask about the team
Don’t be afraid to ask about continuing education for team members. A good cosmetic dentists will be as diligent about continuing education for his team as he is for himself. Your new smile and experience is a team effort.
Take your time
This is the most important part when looking at how to choose the right cosmetic dentist for you. The idea of getting a new smile can be exciting, but you really need to make sure you go slow so that you find the right dentist who understands your goals and your budget. At the end of the day, the dentist you choose is giving you a whole new smile. You should trust them, their process, and their results. If you don’t feel you can fully trust your cosmetic dentist, you should start searching for a new one.