Did you know that cosmetic dentistry is not a topic that’s officially recognized as its own specialty by the American Dental Association? That means essentially any dentist who is licensed to practice can claim to be an expert when it comes to enhancing your smile. So, how do you know whether they have the right knowledge and experience to help you achieve your goals?
If you’re struggling to find a skilled practitioner, continue reading to learn 3 things to look for when seeking someone to help improve your appearance.
Consideration #1: Credentials
Because cosmetic treatments aren’t officially considered a specialty, your dentist can’t become accredited as they could if they pursued other areas of study, like oral surgery, pediatric dentistry, or orthodontics.
However, there are several certification programs for specific services intended to boost your appearance, and various professional organizations to support this area of expertise. Many providers list their participation in such trainings and institutions on their “About Me” section on the website, or you can inquire over the phone or in person.
Consideration #2: Variety of Services
It’s also a good idea to find a provider who offers different procedures at varying price points so that you can find options to upgrade your grin within your budget. Not only that, but the more options your dentist offers, the more likely they are to have the skills required to achieve your goals.
For instance, if your teeth have stubborn stains you can’t seem to brush away, you can potentially brighten your smile with in-office or professional-grade take-home teeth whitening options. However, if the blemishes originate in the lower layer of dentin beneath your enamel, they might not respond well to topical bleach and might do better with a different treatment to mask them, like porcelain veneers.
Consideration #3: Payment Options
Most dental insurance policies don’t cover cosmetic procedures because they’re intended to improve your looks more than your oral health. As a result, plenty of people falsely assume that they can’t afford the services needed to increase their confidence.
Fortunately, many dentists partner with third-party financers, like CareCredit, to offer more flexible financial plans. If your application is approved, these programs allow you to divvy your total invoice into smaller installments over a designated period that are easier on your wallet. Many providers also offer in-house memberships or savings plans that include discounts on their services, often including cosmetics.
If you’re unsure whether your dentist has the qualifications to make the desired adjustments to your appearance, the best way to find out is to ask them!
About the Practice
Patients at Premier Dental benefit from a husband-and-wife dental team with decades of combined experience helping people improve their dental health. Dr. Jones and his wife, Dr. Diaz Jones, are both skilled prosthodontists who collaborate to provide a comprehensive menu of services conveniently under one roof, including cosmetic treatments. They take the time to get to know you, then combine a caring approach with state-of-the-art equipment to deliver accurate, long-lasting results. You can request a cosmetic consultation on the website or call (772) 234-5353.