Finding the Right Cosmetic Dentist

When seeking out a general dentist, you know what you should consider when finding one: whether they accept your dental insurance or not, if they are within easy travel distance, do they have recommendations from friends and family, and do they have great reviews from past patients.  

But what about asking questions to find the right specialist, like a cosmetic dentist?

General dentistry is focused primarily on the health of our teeth, whereas cosmetic dentistry includes refining the appearance of our teeth. While some dental plans may consider cosmetic dentistry procedures non-essential, they have a wide range of benefits. These range from easier to keep clean, an increase in self-confidence,  even reducing grinding to improving bite, the longevity of teeth, and functionality.

Cosmetic dentistry can be the difference between having a self-conscious grimace in all of your photos or a beaming, open smile. If you’re tired of hiding from pictures, it’s time to talk to a cosmetic dentist.

Here are 5 questions you should ask to find a good cosmetic dentist.

Do They Have Advanced Training in Cosmetic Dentistry?

Some dental specialists, such as orthodontists and periodontists, require special certifications to practice under their titles. Cosmetic dentistry, however, doesn’t require any such qualifications be met to use the title. Any general dentist is able to provide cosmetic procedures and usually undergoes continuing education courses to provide these treatments and procedures.

Dr. Harrison is a Doctor of Dentist Surgery and proud member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. As a member of the AACD, she has completed many courses to help her patients achieve their smile goals.

Additionally, as an alumnus of the Pankey Institute, she has completed coursework with a concentration on occlusion, which is how our teeth meet and work together, to create long-lasting restorations.

Do They Have Proof of Continuing Education?

Continuing education is an important pursuit in any field. When it comes to cosmetic dentistry, however, it is imperative since specific certification isn’t required.

Dr. Harrison is a member of the Dallas County Dental Society, the Texas Dental Association, the American Dental Association, the Dallas Study Club, and the American Association of Cosmetic Dentistry.

As a member of the Dallas Study Club, Dr. Harrison has had the opportunity to learn from some of the greatest dental minds across the world. Additionally, as an alumnus of the Pankey Institute, Dr. Harrison has completed coursework with a concentration on occlusion (how our teeth meet and work together) to create long-lasting restorations.

Are You A Member of the AACD?

The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry states that they are “dedicated to advancing excellence in the art and science of comprehensive cosmetic dentistry and encourage the highest standards of ethical conduct and responsible patient care.”

The academy emphasizes that aesthetic dentistry must complement both the general and oral health of the patient and do no harm. They believe cosmetic dentistry should be used to enhance the outcomes of general dentistry and minimize the loss of healthy tissue. Treatment should always be predictable and long-lasting.

Dr. Harrison is a proud member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and has taken many courses made available by them to develop her expertise.  

Do You Have Patient Testimonials? Can I See Before and After Pictures of Patients Like Me?

You can get a feel for what it will be like to work with a cosmetic dentist from what other patients have had to say about their own experience. You can find testimonials for any dental practice through popular review sites like Facebook, Yelp, and Google.

Many dental practices also share before and after results of their patients on their website. This can help you to visualize the results can expect from your cosmetic dentist.

You can read testimonials from other Millenium Dental patients here.

You can also have a look at patient results in our smile gallery here.

What Cosmetic Services Do You Offer?

It is important to know what services your cosmetic dentist is able to provide. Not all cosmetic dentists have the same skill set. The procedures they are able to provide are dependent on the education courses and advanced trainings they have taken.

Here at Millennium Dental, Dr. Harrison can provide the following cosmetic services:

  • Porcelain veneers
  • Tooth whitening
  • Bridges
  • Crowns
  • Tooth-colored fillings
  • Bonding

Of course, the procedures and services you receive will be dependent on the treatment plan your cosmetic dentist creates for you after fully assessing the health of your mouth. They will take your smile goals and budget into consideration as well when creating your plan.

Finally creating the smile you’ve always dreamed of is an exciting journey, but it’s also one that can be a bit nerve-wracking. It’s a big step to take, after all! Using these five questions, you’ll be able to find the cosmetic dentist that is the right fit for you and your goals.

At Millennium Dental, we want you to experience the comfort and confidence that comes from a beautiful, healthy smile. We take a gentle, individualized approach to dental care coupled with advanced technology to provide you with a convenient and pleasant visit every time you’re in the office.

We hope to see you soon!

 

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