Questions To Ask Before Choosing A Cosmetic Dentist

Are you self-conscious about your less-than-perfect teeth? Do you want to get your teeth fixed but you're not sure how to pick a good cosmetic dentist? Choosing the right dentist for you is important since your dentist will be the one who will be changing the look of your smile. Since this decision will have an effect for years to come, you don't want to simply pick a random dentist from the phone book and go with them. Here are some questions to ask that will help you make sure that you've found the right dentist for you:

What procedure or procedures do you recommend for my mouth? 

After looking at your teeth and your X-rays, a cosmetic dentist should start formulating a plan to get your teeth looking great again. Don't be afraid to ask what this plan is. After all, it's your mouth and you deserve to know what'll be happening. You may also want to ask about other potential procedures so that you have more options. For example, your insurance might not cover your dentist's first recommendation but may cover another choice. 

What advantages and disadvantages are there to each procedure? 

A good cosmetic dentist will take the time to explain the merits of each treatment that he or she recommends. If you happen upon an overworked dentist who is all too eager to rush you out of his or her office or that tries to tell you that there are no drawbacks to the procedure that he or she is recommending, it's time to look for another dentist. Any dental work, even cleanings, will always carry some risk. So before you agree to anything, make sure that you are comfortable with not just the benefits but with any potential side effects as well. Most potential side effects should be rare, but your cosmetic dentist will be able to give you more details.

Will these results be permanent? 

Some aspects of cosmetic dentistry are relatively permanent, such as braces to adjust your teeth. Others, such as cleanings or tooth whitening, may last only for a relatively short period of time. Your cosmetic dentist will be able to tell you how long your results will last and whether or not there is anything that you can do to keep your teeth looking beautiful for as long as possible. If having your teeth whitened, your dentist may recommend staying away from tea or other drinks that may stain your teeth. 

Check out a company like Charlottesville Dental Medicine at Forest Lakes to get started in your search.