Are you considering whitening your smile? Interested in fixing chipped or cracked teeth? If so, then you’ll want to seek treatment from a skilled and trustworthy cosmetic dentist. There should be no room for error when it comes to upgrading your pearly whites. That said, after spending some time researching, you might ask yourself: “What’s the difference between a cosmetic and a general dentist?” Keep reading to learn what you can expect from these two kinds of professionals.
What’s the Difference Between a Cosmetic & General Dentist?
Between general and cosmetic dentists, the difference essentially comes down to their training. According to the American Dental Association, cosmetic dentistry isn’t considered an official specialty. Therefore, any dentist can refer to themselves as a specialist in this field. Most dental professionals do receive some training in aesthetic services. However, a true cosmetic dentist will undergo advanced courses and seek continuing education to attain an elevated level of skill and expertise in this form of dentistry.
Traits to Look for in a Cosmetic Dentist
Fortunately, with some research, you can easily locate a trustworthy cosmetic dentist to help you. Many doctors even share their training and education on their websites, making it easier to learn more about their specific skills and experience. A good place to start would be to read about their credentials, including where they studied dentistry, the number of hours completed for continuing education courses, and any professional organizations they’re affiliated with. After getting familiar with their expertise, check out any before and after photos of their past patients to verify their skills. Once you’re comfortable with their work and experience, you can feel confident about scheduling an initial consultation with them.
The Importance of Scheduling a Consultation
While spending hours researching online is helpful, visiting your cosmetic dentist in person is crucial. During your initial consultation, they can learn as much as possible about your smile goals before assessing your oral health. They’ll also determine your candidacy for any cosmetic treatments they provide, providing you with the appropriate options you can choose from. Throughout your appointment, feel free to ask any questions, see how you feel about your dentist, and get familiarized with the overall practice. With this information, you should be well informed about how you’ll proceed with achieving your dream smile.
Choosing a cosmetic dentist for improving your teeth can ensure you receive your desired results. Consider these few tips during your research, and you’ll be one step closer to getting the pearly whites you’ve always wanted!
About the Author
Dr. Miguel A. Casañas received his dental doctorate from the State University of Stony Brook. He also regularly seeks continuing education to refine his skills and is a member of several organizations like the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. He offers a wide variety of high-quality services, including teeth whitening, direct bonding, and veneers. If you’d like to schedule an initial consultation, visit his website or call 516-346-5655.