Many dentists claim to be cosmetic dentists. But that’s in part because there’s nothing that stops any dentist from calling themselves a “cosmetic dentist.” So how do you know if your dentist is really focused on cosmetic dentistry or if it’s just something they are happy to do if the opportunity arises?
Here are some things to look out for that can help you tell true cosmetic dentists from imitators.
Advanced Training in Cosmetic Dentistry
All dentists learn some amount of cosmetic dentistry at dental school, but it’s not much. A dentist who really wants to do cosmetic dentistry will take the time to seek out focused cosmetic dentistry training. Check a dentist’s website and look on their profile page to see what kind of training the dentist has.
Look for training from advanced dental schools that focus on cosmetic dentistry. Schools like the Pacific Aesthetic Continuum, the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies, the Hornbrook Group, and others should stand out in a dentist’s list of training. They may even have been honored with the rank of Fellow.
You should also see training in specific techniques, such as Invisalign, Fountain of Youth® Dentures, dental implants, and others.
Finally, the dentist should have membership in at least one cosmetic dentistry focused organization, such as the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD).
Extensive Smile Gallery
A dentist who really cares about cosmetic dentistry will have a robust gallery of before-and-after images. We’re not just talking about the number of pictures. Although there should be a reasonable amount of pictures, it’s not just the number of images that counts, it’s the way they’re presented. A dentist serious about cosmetic dentistry will have taken effort to produce quality images and present them to you in a way that really helps you understand what’s going on in the pictures. The images should be large enough for you to really look at the differences. The lighting should be similar enough that you can really judge the differences. And it is helpful if the dentist provides a short context so that you can know what’s going on in the images.
Advanced Technology
When you check a dentist’s website, you should see a combination of technologies that help the dentist diagnose, plan, and execute your cosmetic procedures. Some technologies to look for include smile imaging, Invisalign, FOY ® Dentures, all-ceramic crowns, teeth whitening, and porcelain veneers. If your dentist isn’t offering a full range of cosmetic options, it’s safe to say that they’re not really focused on cosmetic dentistry.
There Are Smiles Everywhere
If the dentist has passed all the above tests, it’s time for a consultation. When you visit a dentist’s office, you should see smiles everywhere. Dentists who create beautiful smiles feel that these creations are about the most attractive decorations available. So it makes sense that they’ll put them up on the walls. This will also give you an opportunity to judge whether this dentist’s style will match with your own. If you’re not a big fan of the way they work on smiles, perhaps this is not the right dentist for you.
Looking for a Cosmetic Dentist in St. Louis?
If you’re looking for a dentist in St. Louis who is focused on cosmetic dentistry, then look no further than Dr. Chris Hill at City Smiles, with offices downtown and in Clayton. Please call (314) 678-7876 (Downtown St. Louis) or (314) 678-7876 (Clayton) today for an appointment to learn how he can help you get the smile of your dreams.
