3 Recommendations Before Visiting a Cosmetic Dentist
If you are self-conscious about your smile, it could be time to visit a cosmetic dentist. Cosmetic dentists are dental health professionals whose primary focus is improving the appearance of your overall smile. Cosmetic dentistry may include implants, whitening treatments, fillings, and veneers.
Before seeing a new oral health care professional, you may want to have an idea of what to expect and how to prepare. Here are three recommendations to help you start your journey toward a more beautiful grin.
3 things to know before seeing a cosmetic dentist
Seeing a new health care professional can be nerve-wracking, especially when you do not know what to anticipate. This information will put your mind at ease when you make your first appointment with a cosmetic dental professional.
1. How to prepare your mouth
Before a cosmetic dentist beautifies your smile, your teeth must first be healthy enough for the procedures you seek. Unhealthy teeth and gums can prevent your smile makeover from achieving the grand results you hope for. As a result, ensure that your oral health is pristine before asking for cosmetic dentistry. This means you should take proper care of your mouth by brushing, flossing, and mouth washing regularly. It also necessitates semiannual trips to your general dentist. Ask your oral health care professional if your teeth are healthy enough for the cosmetic procedures you are interested in. Any issues can be taken care of prior to your first trip to the cosmetic dentist.
Some common problems that interfere with cosmetic procedures include:
- Tooth decay
- Worn teeth
- Gaps in teeth
For example, while porcelain veneers cannot decay, the tooth underneath can. Veneers cannot treat tooth decay. While the shell may cover the look of a decayed tooth, you could still suffer from further decay and require a root canal despite having veneers. Likewise, if you wear your teeth down through grinding, you may not have the surface for the veneers to cling to.
2. What to bring with you to the consultation
Many people meeting with a cosmetic dentist for the first time are nervous and excited. It is likely you have been waiting for years, even decades, to have the smile of your dreams. To ensure you communicate your wishes flawlessly, prepare a list of questions to keep you focused. Questions to ask include:
- How many times have you performed this type of procedure?
- Can you achieve the look I want?
- How much will this work cost?
- How long will this take?
- Will my ability to eat and speak be temporarily impacted?
In addition to a list of questions, it is wise to bring a photograph of the smile you envision to the consultation with your cosmetic dentist. Since no two mouths or smiles are identical, do not expect to achieve the exact results you see in photos. However, this can provide your dentist with an idea of the direction you would like to go in. It can also give him or her an idea of the issues you seek to address and what treatments will work well for you.
Let your dentist know about your at-home oral care treatment. Let him or her know if you use professional whitening treatment and how often you brush your teeth every day. Even knowing the type of toothbrush you use can help the oral care professional figure out the extent of your problems and how to care for you.
3. What to expect at the visit
At an initial visit to the cosmetic dentist, anticipate both aesthetic and conventional evaluations. The dentist will examine your teeth, gums, and bite. X-rays may be taken as well. The aesthetic portion is less objective and involves a discussion between you and the professional to determine how to proceed.
During your visit, remember to pull out your list of questions. As you discuss your treatment options, question any aspect you do not understand. By the time you leave the dental office, you should have a clear idea of the procedures waiting for you, the cost, and how long it takes to heal from the visit.
Conclusion
Making an appointment with a cosmetic dentist is a thrilling time for people who are uncomfortable with showing off their pearly whites. Cosmetic dentistry can fix discolored, misaligned, and crooked teeth to restore confidence. Prepare for a positive experience by having good overall oral health and knowing what you hope to gain.
Request an appointment here: https://siegertdental.com or call Siegert Dental at (608) 394-3943 for an appointment in our Onalaska office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Cosmetic Dentist in Onalaska, WI.
Related Posts
One of the most popular procedures cosmetic dentists offers is teeth whitening. So, if you are one of the many who would like to see your teeth a few shades brighter, you are not alone. However, those considering these procedures should know what to expect. This article covers key details of teeth whitening from a…
A cosmetic dentist can help you regain your dental health by fixing your damaged teeth. Dental damage can happen anywhere, at any time. Getting immediate help can prevent complications. Knowing how your dentist can fix your damaged teeth can prepare you for your next appointment. Here are the ways your cosmetic dentist can repair your…
A cosmetic dentist can help if you are not happy with the way your smile looks or feels. The right treatment for your dental needs can change your life. Knowing the reasons for seeing this dental care provider can help you schedule an appointment soon. Here are three reasons for visiting a cosmetic dentist.Dental decay…
Seeing a cosmetic dentist can give you the information you need if you want to have a dental procedure. A consultation with your dentist is a chance for you to ask questions about things that are relevant to your dental treatment. This dental care provider can help you make informed decisions about your aesthetic dental…