Millions of Americans are unhappy with their smiles. Luckily, cosmetic dentistry can erase your dental imperfections and give you a grin you can confidently show off. If you’re interested in moving forward with the process, the first step on your journey is a cosmetic dental consultation. At this initial appointment, you’ll figure out which treatments work best for you and find out what those procedures involve. To get all that information, here are five questions you should ask your dentist.
What Are Your Qualifications and Experience?
One of the first things you should ask your dentist during your consultation is questions about themselves. Not only will it give you a sense of their personality, but it will give you insight into their qualifications. You should ask what type of board certifications they have, how many years of experience they have in cosmetic dentistry, and what kinds of procedures they specialize in. Additionally, you should ask to see examples of past cosmetic dental work. It will help you get an idea of your dentist’s skill set and experience.
Which Cosmetic Treatment Do You Recommend?
Your cosmetic dentist will conduct an oral examination and recommend suitable procedures based on your unique case. The treatment they recommend depends on the state and health of your mouth and teeth. To help determine which procedure is best for your needs, ask your dentist about the pros and cons of each option, their durability, the success rate, and a preview of potential results. Don’t forget to ask them to detail the steps of the procedure and the number of appointments needed.
How Long Will My Treatment Take?
Before committing to treatment, you should ask what steps are involved in the procedure and how long it will take from the first appointment to the final result. While some procedures can be completed in one visit, others (such as orthodontic treatment) can take months or even years. It’s important to know how long your treatment will take so you can dedicate the right amount of time to it.
What Will It Cost?
When deciding on the right cosmetic treatment for your smile, you’ll want to consider the total cost. Even though most insurance plans do not offer coverage for cosmetic dental work, your dental practice may have additional financing options to make expenses a bit easier to manage. During your consultation, ask your dentist what you can expect to pay and whether they offer financial assistance.
How Long Will My Results Last?
Be sure to ask how long the results of your treatment will last! Since every patient is unique, your dentist will probably give you a range rather than a specific amount of time that you can expect to go before redoing or replacing your dental work. The longevity of your new smile also depends on factors like your oral hygiene and lifestyle.
After your cosmetic dental consultation, you should feel well-informed and confident in your decision to move forward with the process. By asking the five questions listed above, you can ensure that your dentist is the right person who can successfully transform your smile!
About the Author
Dr. Karen Littlefield Neil has over three decades of dentistry experience under her belt. Since earning her dental doctorate at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, she has attended numerous hours of continuing education to refine and expand her skill set. If you’re unhappy with your smile, Dr. Neil offers cosmetic dentistry to help improve it. Visit her website or call (817) 738-3368 to schedule a cosmetic dental consultation.