How to Select a Cosmetic Dentist


A cosmetic dentist is a professional that specializes in improving the aesthetics of your smile. This is accomplished through a variety of treatments, such as whitening and dental bonding. When selecting a dentist to perform these procedures, you want to make sure they have the necessary skills, experience and education. There are many dentists who promote themselves as cosmetic dentists, even though they have no formal training or specialized knowledge in this area of dentistry. The right cosmetic dentist will have extensive technical knowledge and a refined artistic touch, as well.

A patient may visit a cosmetic dentist to address issues with their appearance, such as discolored teeth or misaligned teeth. Alternatively, they may have suffered injuries to their mouth or jaw that resulted in gaps or missing teeth. In either case, the goal is to improve their smile and increase self-confidence in their appearance. Some cosmetic treatments are elective, while others have restorative value. A patient should always discuss their goals and expectations with their cosmetic dentist before beginning treatment.


The responsibilities of a cosmetic dentist are different from those of a general or family dentist. A general dentist offers preventative care, like teeth cleanings, as well as restorative treatments, such as dental fillings and crowns. They also provide emergency services. A cosmetic dentist focuses more on beauty and aesthetics, offering elective treatments that patients often request.

Some of the most popular treatments offered by cosmetic dentists include tooth whitening, dental bonding, and porcelain veneers. Teeth whitening involves applying a special bleaching agent to the teeth that lightens them and removes stains. Bonding involves molding and shaping a material to the tooth, which is then hardened with an ultraviolet light. Dental veneers are thin shells of medical-grade porcelain that are bonded to the front surface of the tooth. Unlike natural tooth enamel, the veneers are stain-resistant and durable.

A good cosmetic dentist should have a wide range of tools to fix problems with your smile. In addition to the aforementioned procedures, they should be able to perform other services, such as replacing and restoring lost teeth with dentures or dental implants. In addition, they should have the ability to restore broken or chipped teeth with composite resin, ceramics and other materials.

You should choose a dentist that is certified by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). A dentist who has earned this certification has taken extra courses and seminars in the field of cosmetic dentistry and has significant experience performing these treatments. In addition, they should be knowledgeable about the latest advancements in this area of dentistry.

A dentist who offers several cosmetic treatments should have an office that is clean and comfortable. Patients should feel at ease when visiting the office and be greeted warmly by the staff. Additionally, a good cosmetic dentist should offer payment plans and financing options for their services. This makes it easier for patients to receive the treatments they desire. Lastly, a good cosmetic dentist will be willing to answer questions and address any concerns that patients have about their procedures.

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