Choosing Your Cosmetic Dentist

Whether you are deciding on tooth whitening, composite fillings, bonding, veneers or dental implants, one of the most important aspects in your decision is in the selection of your dentist. When you go for a dentistry consultation, you may be equipped with intraoral photos, before and after photographs, tooth impressions, study models and the like, and the details about your dentist can play a role in the success of your treatment.

Advanced Training and Experience: Training varies among cosmetic dentists. Those that are sustaining members of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry are more likely to have the most experience performing cosmetic dentistry procedures. Advanced cosmetic dentists also tend to use the latest technology to perform procedures such as laser dentistry and sedation dentistry. Full mouth reconstruction experience is also highly desirable in cosmetic dentistry professionals because procedures like dental crowns, root canals, and bridges can affect your bite which can impact the longevity of cosmetic dentistry procedures.  So, it’s wise to ask your dentist about the organizations they participate in, the technology that they have been trained to use, and the types of procedures they have focused on.

Proof in Results: Cosmetic dentists with experience in such procedures usually have a gallery of before and after photos that you can view to obtain an idea of the outcome you can expect to receive from treatment. They may also use imaging technology and study models to provide a preview of the results you can achieve. If you are interested in dental veneers, you may receive temporary veneers until the permanent veneers are made so you can experience firsthand the comfortable fit, color and shape of your new teeth.

Patient Comforts: Cosmetic dentists may offer relaxing music, special comfort chairs and the like to help you be relaxed for your procedure. Some dentists offer sedation dentistry for total relaxation. Some incorporate a dental spa atmosphere to allow for the most comfortable experience.

Aftercare Support: Since you may have questions following treatment, it’s nice to know your dentist’s policies for after-hour support. Cosmetic dentists may be personally available to address any questions that may come up following treatment.

It might now be time to know more about the types of procedures available in cosmetic dentistry. You also may want to know the frequently asked questions about these types of treatment. With a bit of due diligence, you can soon be ready to enjoy the benefits of cosmetic dentistry!

If you are interested in general dentistry or cosmetic dentistry, contact Dr. Mark Sweeney, an Austin Texas cosmetic dentist, for a consultation at 512-380-1300.