Cosmetic Dentists
From LoveToKnow Makeup
Cosmetic dentists can be either your local regular dentist or a specialist. As a voluntary option, cosmetic dentistry is typically an out of pocket expense. Due to this financial investment and the impact on your self image, all cosmetic procedures should be researched and well planned.
Basic Types of Dentists
When researching dentists, you will quickly discover eight main types of dental physician specialties.
Endodontist
The endodontist is a dentist who focuses on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of the disorders involving the interior of the tooth. One of the most common procedures is the root canal.
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon
This type of dental surgeon deals with a broad range of diseases, injuries, and defects of the head, neck, face and jaw. It requires four extra years of specialized training.
Oral Pathologist
A research oriented dental career, the oral pathologist consults with other fellow dentists on diseases of the mouth.
Orthodontist
This dental professional improves appearance and dental function through repairing crooked or missing teeth.
Pediatric Dentist
A regular dentist who specializes in children is a pediatric dentist.
Periodontist
This dental specialist focuses on the gums and bones that support the teeth. It requires three additional years of training.
Prosthodontist
A prosthodontist specializes in replacing missing teeth, most commonly involved in dentures, bridges and implants. Three additional years of training are also required here.
Public Health Dentist
A dentist that deals with large population groups has a specialty in public health. Often working with other health officials, they focus on large scale community efforts toward prevention and control of dental problems.
While researching your options in cosmetic dentists, you will find that some of these types may be worth a visit. Depending on your situation, a simple dentist might suffice or you may need the support of a specialist.
Cosmetic Dentistry
Many cosmetic procedures can be performed at any dental office; the question is whether or not that is the best place. Cosmetic dentists have no additional license requirements for specialty services. Once a dentist receives a license from the state, he/she can practice any type of dental service, cosmetic or basic. Ethically speaking, most dentists will take the time to receive additional training or experience before marketing their services. As a customer, it is important to explore your comfort level and trust with your selected cosmetic professional.
Although there are no legal requirements for cosmetic dentists, there is an organization known as the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. An elective association, they provide an accreditation procedure. Their approval is only given after a dentist passes both a written and oral exam, plus a clinical case evaluation. While many good cosmetic dentists may not be accredited, it is still a good starting place on your search for the best cosmetic professional.
Cosmetic Services
Cosmetic dentists can completely makeover your smile with the following services.
- Tooth Whitening – bleaching teeth for overall brightness or to even out the color.
- Repair Distorted Teeth – for both function and appearance, dentists utilize crowns, veneers and bridges to remake your smile.
- Dental Implants – for more major repairs or replacements.
- Orthodontics – using braces and retainers to gradually move teeth that are crooked or crowded.
How to Select a Cosmetic Dentist
Do You Need a Cosmetic Dentist?
First take a second to assess the condition of your teeth. While standing in front of a mirror, ask yourself the following questions:
- Do you see your gums when you smile?
- Are the length and width of your front teeth even with the rest?
- Do you have large spaces between your teeth?
- Are any teeth overlapping, crooked, or sticking out?
- Is the teeth color uniform? Are there any stains?
- Can you see your fillings when you smile?
- What is the condition of your gums? Are they pink and healthy, with a curve around the teeth?
Cosmetic dentists can help you improve any of these potential problems. Once you have identified your needs, the next step is to find the dentist.
Searching for a Match
Selecting the best dentist is a major factor in your success. While personal feelings matter, it is also important to look at all the criteria:
- Investigate credentials.
- Check personal references.
- Perform an initial interview or evaluation.
- Research with the state boards.
- Preview all their marketing materials, websites, and before/after pictures.
- Consider asking for second opinions.
- Request a price quote.
Also, when evaluating a cosmetic dentist, ask her/him the following questions:
- How many times have you preformed this procedure?
- How did you acquire your training?
- Do you have photographs of your work?
Understand the Procedure
Once you have found the perfect cosmetic dentist, take a little time to independently research the type of procedures you plan to have done. Discuss outcomes and resolutions with your dentist beforehand. Work together on ideas and find a dentist who is your partner.
Learn More
Comments
Hi Isha,
I'm sorry but we don't actually send anything out to our visitors. Have you tried contacting the company? They may be able to help.
-- Contributed by: Jacqueline Dautajplz send me the details of cosmetic dentistry i am adental graduate -- Contributed by: isha
This page has been accessed 1,895 times. This page was last modified 00:16, 5 November 2006.
© 2006-2010 LoveToKnow Corp.
Subscribe with RSS
See all RSS feeds
Visit us on facebook