If you dream of enhancing your smile with dental cosmetics, it makes sense that you would want to ensure your dentist knows what they’re doing! Finding a quality cosmetic dentist can be a bit more confusing than other specializations because it doesn’t require any formal certification. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t any other key traits you can look for. Keep reading for some cosmetic dentist “green flags.”
Training
There’s not a board of aesthetic professionals handing out cosmetic dentistry certificates, however, there are plenty of special programs, schools, and training courses devoted to advanced smile enhancing techniques. Rest assured, man of them are well-known in the world of dentistry and have a prestigious reputation! If your dentist mentions they’ve completed advanced training for cosmetic dental treatments, don’t hesitate to ask them for more details.
Before, After, and Virtual Examples
Many dental practices have a “smile gallery” on their websites that showcase their work. These typically feature before and after photos of a patient’s teeth side-by-side, so you can see clearly how the dentist impacted their smiles. If you like what you see, that’s a good indication you’ve found the right practice!
These days, a dentist may also be able to provide you with a sneak-peak at how your smile will look after certain treatments. This is done with a virtual software called “virtual smile design.” If you’re feeling indecisive about your cosmetic options, this is a great way to test them out and can be a worthwhile amenity to look for.
Financing
Dental insurance plans don’t normally cover cosmetic dental work; patients on a budget should definitely investigate a dental practice’s alternative payment options! Something you’ll likely see is CareCredit financing. Your dentist can explain CareCredit in more detail, but essentially, they provide little-to-no-interest payment plans that break down your treatment total into smaller, monthly installments.
Partnerships
Some cosmetic dental treatments involve a third professional entity that not all patients are aware of: dental labs. A dental lab is where customized restorations like veneers or metal-free crowns will actually be sculpted and manufactured. Asking your dentist about who they partner with for the fabrication process can give you reassurance about the aesthetics of your cosmetics!
At the end of the day, there’s a lot to consider when it comes to finding a good cosmetic dentist. If you still find yourself feeling unsure after doing your due diligence with research, write down your questions and concerns, and schedule an office tour with your top three choices. Sometimes, all it takes is a good face-to-face interaction to find the right cosmetic dentist for you!
About the Practice
Drs. Kristopher R. Harth is a northeast Florida native, and Eric L. Townsend has been providing quality dental care to Ponte Vedra Beach patients for well over 20 years. Both professionals have a wealth of experience in their own right but keep up with continuing education courses to keep their skills sharp and their techniques up-to-date. If you’re looking for a cosmetic dentist near you, you can contact Dr. Harth and Dr. Townsend’s office at 904-285-7711.