What is cosmetic dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry involves a range of dental practices utilized to restore broken teeth or replace missing teeth. This can include a number of dental treatments such as dental implants, veneers, CEREC, teeth whitening, etc.

Selecting the right dentist and dental procedure is crucial to making sure you can reach the best results while taking pleasure in the best experience possible as a patient.

If you are considering transforming your smile, take a few moments to think about these questions every patient should ask to assist to get you moving in the right direction.

9 Questions to ask before performing cosmetic dentistry

Am I an ideal candidate for cosmetic dentistry?

Without exception, the answer is yes — there’s always a way to improve your appearance, beginning with enhanced oral sanitation or perhaps teeth bleaching.

But whether you are a candidate for a specific procedure will depend on a full examination of your mouth by a highly professional dental expert to evaluate your present condition and needs, and what cosmetic choices would best fit your individual needs.

What are my options?

The diversity of cosmetic services accessible will depend tremendously on the skill and experience of a particular dentist. Some favorite cosmetic procedures are dental implants and veneers.

Your dentist will guide you through what appropriate treatment choices are reachable and work in cooperation with you to determine what options best fit you and your requirements.

As part of the service, each patient is allotted over an hour for the first consultation so both patient and dentist have an opportunity to talk about the case, risks, and the best-suggested course of action. Whether you decide to proceed with treatment or not, you will leave the consultation with an explicit understanding of your present situation and the options suitable for you.

Are my expectations realistic?

That will first depend on what the dentist recognizes during your consultation and if this also aligns with your smile aims. Your consultation will also include examining the bigger picture — how certain changes might influence not only your smile but your total facial appearance.

Your wants and desires are highly important in this process, but they should also be harmonious with reality — some things may not be in your best interest regarding the health to take on or are not in keeping with basic cosmetic principles of beauty.

What skills, abilities and experience should the dentist have?

When selecting the right dentist for you, particularly when it comes to cosmetic dentistry, it is essential to take into account their qualifications and skills. This can help you to conclude whether the dentist has the essential skills, experience, and ability to perform the treatment you need.

The dentist’s skill and experience will influence the result and permanence of your procedure. During a cosmetic dentistry consultation, ask the dentist what type of treatment they have previously executed and what results they have had for patients.

Will I be able to see what my smile will look like?

The dental industry has come a long way in offering patients ways to see their new smiles before undergoing a procedure. It is often probable to “preview” your suggested smile by using technology.

At most clinics, advanced technology and equipment including 3D scanning are used to show their patients what their smiles will look like and help reach the best results.

What will it cost?

This will depend on the treatment plan you and your dentist select to undertake together. Some procedures such as teeth whitening are completely affordable, while treatments such as dental implants are relatively expensive. You should also think about the costs related to your time and the longevity of the treatment.

Some procedures need only a single visit, while others may take months or even years to complete. Depending on your financial conditions and comfort level, the cost will need to be included in the final plan, as well as your expectations.

How long will it take?

This will differ depending on the type of treatment that has been suggested and chosen. Your dentist will expound completely on the step-by-step process of what the procedure will involve and how long each step will take. They will also try their best to include your requirements, budget, and lifestyle needs.

Will I need pain relief?

Your dentist can tell you about your pain relief choices. Some clinics provide the extra benefit of in-house sedation conducted by a qualified practitioner so that you can have all treatment performed in the chair. Learn more about sleep dentistry and dental sedation options.

What are the potential negative aspects of the treatment?

Cosmetic procedures can dramatically transform your life for the better, offering a permanent solution to otherwise unmanageable dental issues.

However, as with any complicated medical procedure, there are risks. Your dentist should precisely examine with you the positive and negative aspects of each method so that you can make a logical, true decision.

Conclusion

When you are going to undergo cosmetic dentistry, you must be well informed about the process. There are some factors such as cost, dentist’s experience, time, result, and expectations that must be considered before the procedure.

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