Because cosmetic dentistry is not recognized as a dental specialization, any dentist who performs cosmetic procedures can be considered a cosmetic dentist. This means that you’ll want to do some research before choosing the cosmetic dentist you’ll work with, to ensure that they’re qualified experts who will provide good treatment and produce excellent results. The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) provides a search tool to assist people in finding qualified cosmetic dentists in their area. This organization lists accredited dentists who have committed to continuing education and who have demonstrated their expertise and abilities. This Find a Dentist tool is a good place to start, but there are additional measures you can take to make sure you’re happy with your choice. Ultimately, your own preferences and priorities should influence your decision, and familiarity with the procedures cosmetic dentists provide will help you find a cosmetic dentist you can trust to provide admirable results.
For many patients, cost is a factor in selecting a cosmetic dentist. While this is understandable, cosmetic dentistry requires a combination of artistry and dental expertise, and these things do come with a cost. If you find a cosmetic dentist who’s offering prices that seem too good to be true, these costs might actually be too good to be true. The skill and time required to achieve excellent results come at a cost, and you’re paying for artistry and expertise that’s been earned and honed through years of experience. While these procedures may be expensive when performed by a highly competent, experienced cosmetic dentist, many dental practices work with third-party financing organizations and will work with you to plan an optimal treatment that is within your budget.
One good way to find qualified cosmetic dentists with solid reputations is to ask people whose opinions you trust for recommendations. Your general dentist can also recommend cosmetic dentists they’ve worked with, and online reviews can provide some insight into the treatment you might expect. After soliciting recommendations, check these dentists against the AACD database to make sure they have solid credentials. Once you’ve gathered some references and checked their credentials, call the dental practice to ask for more information. Ask if the dentist you’re considering working with has pursued any post-graduate education in the field of cosmetic dentistry or with specific procedures you’re curious about. You can also ask about the dentist’s history with cosmetic dentistry; dentists whose practice is largely or entirely devoted to cosmetic procedures have more experience and are often more familiar with innovative techniques and technologies that offer impeccable results.
Many cosmetic dentists provide galleries of before-and-after photos that demonstrate their work. In some cases, less-reputable dentists will use retouched photos or stock photos for their online photo galleries, so don’t be afraid to call the dentist if you have concerns and ask for referral patients; then, call these patients to learn more about their treatments and results. Once you’ve decided which dentists you might want to work with, set up a consultation, and ask clear questions. It’s okay to express your concerns; pay attention to the responses, and make sure you feel comfortable with the way the dentist communicates and explains. If you feel comfortable and cared for at this consultation and believe that the dentist has truly listened to your concerns and provided thorough, respectful responses, you may have found the right cosmetic dentist for you.
