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With an ever growing number of dentists offering various types of treatments, the available choices can be a little overwhelming, to say the least.
So where do you begin? In this article we will provide general tips and tricks to help with the decision making process.
To begin, you should start by obtaining a referral.
A recommendation from your general dentist is a good place to start.
Due to the fact that they have been able to gain a first hand look at the situation, he or she will be able to best recommend possible options as they see fit.
Your dentist may find that your gums, teeth, bite, or supporting bone structure is in need of further evaluation prior to recommending a cosmetic treatment.
In such cases, they may first refer you to a specialist to better prepare your mouth for an upcoming procedure.
All of these factors play a part in the effectiveness and longevity of many cosmetic procedures.
In some instances, a full mouth reconstruction may play a role in your cosmetic treatment.
Do your homework.
Ask family, friends, and neighbors who have undergone cosmetic treatments who they would recommend.
Make yourself a list of questions and call the offices in order to gain the necessary information.
You may even want to ask whether or not the dentist is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, an organization whose membership requires adherence to ethical standards, rigorous study, and lengthy examinations to be considered.
Other criteria you may want to consider includes: • The amount of experience the dentist has.
• Whether the results of previous patients shown in photographs are to your liking.
• How extensive in the practice? Do they offer imaging technology or study models? • What types of technologies are used to aid in the process of obtaining your desired result? • What types of comforts are offered to patients? (Comfy chairs, headphones, spa services, sedation methods).
• Where is the practice located? • What are the hours? • Are their emergency services? Is communication for these services provided over the phone or in person? If the answers meet your expectations, then you may decide to schedule a consultation.
You initial meeting is an opportunity to learn more about the practice and gain a better idea of what the available options are.
The specialist will gather records pertaining to your dental history through an examination, x-rays, impressions, discussion and various other methods.
You may also have a chance to meet with a patient coordinator, who will help with scheduling and follow-up care.
Once you've gathered all of your information, lay out all of your notes and list your options.
By this point, you should have a pretty good idea of what types of procedures best suit your situation.
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