SMILES by
DESIGN
How To Find A Great Cosmetic Dentist
Presented by David K. Chan, DMD
There’s nothing like a knock-out smile. Just consider that we smile when
greeting someone, we smile in appreciation and we smile to convey
happiness. There is little doubt that a beautiful smile is our most
important social gesture. Your smile is the ultimate center of
expression and when it dazzles, you exude confidence, contentment and
joy.
However, when your smile is in need of a tune-up, you are in need of
finding a good cosmetic dentist to perform the work. Though it may be
convenient, don’t let location be the deciding factor in who you pick.
You want a dentist who uses the most up-to-date equipment and
technology, and if you have to travel a little to get that, it’s worth
it. Since much of cosmetic dentistry is irreversible, you want to get it
done perfectly the first time. A good place to start looking for a
qualified cosmetic dentist would be “The American Academy of Cosmetic
Dentistry” www.aacd.com. Of course, if you have a friend who just got a
stellar smile, follow his or her lead and get the dentist’s name. And
above all, since cosmetic dentistry is an elective treatment, don’t
hesitate to get second or third opinions.
So, if you are looking for a experienced cosmetic dentist to enhance
your smile, here are a few tips to consider.
5 Tips To Help You Choose A Cosmetic
Dentist:
Training:
Start by ensuring that whoever is
performing your treatment has specific training in cosmetic dentistry
either at the university level or through continuing education courses.
Your dentist should take a minimum of 40 hours per year in continuing
education classes.
Consultation:
Once you find a dentist who you confide in, set up a consultation. When
you arrive, ask to see the dentist’s photographs of before and after
work completed for his or her own patients. A qualified cosmetic dentist
would be proud to share the work he or she has done. Do not bargain
hunt, this is not the place to pinch pennies, you want quality results
or you may end up spending twice the money and time to redo everything.
Most of all, make sure you feel comfortable and confident with the
dentist.
Exam:
During the consultation, make sure the dentist does a complete
examination of your teeth. The dentist should discuss with you how the
treatment will benefit you, affect your bite, your gums and the general
function of your teeth.
Accreditation:
The dentist should be affiliated with
one or more of the cosmetic dental associations:
1. The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
2. The American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry
3. The American Society of Dental Aesthetics
Laboratory:
Ask what ceramist (the technician that fabricates the dental
restorations) the dentist uses. Most cosmetic dentists have an on-site
ceramist to make sure the restorations are customized to the highest
level of esthetics.
Dr Chan’s office “Northwest Smile
Designs” focuses on cosmetic dentistry is located in Fisher’s Landing,
19120 SE 34th Street. Suite #104, Vancouver, WA 98683.
(360)885-1206
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