Do you have a general dentist whom you know and trust? That is a wonderful thing! Because of your good relationship with your normal dentist, you might dread the idea of trying to find a different care provider for cosmetic treatment. The good news is that you probably will not have to! In fact, most general dentists are very well-qualified to perform cosmetic services. In this blog post, you will learn more about what you should know about aesthetic treatments from your regular dentist.
What Does It Mean to Be a Cosmetic Dentist?
It is important to note that cosmetic dentistry is not an officially recognized specialty in the world of dental medicine. In fact, any licensed dentist can call themselves a “cosmetic dentist.” Plus, the lines are blurred when it comes to defining exactly what services qualify as “cosmetic.”
For example, Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment, but some view it as cosmetic because it can make your smile look better while also providing oral health benefits. Dental crowns, dental implants, tooth-colored fillings, and other services also have cosmetic aspects to them.
Other services, such as veneers, teeth whitening, and dental bonding, fall more strongly into the category of cosmetic dentistry.
If you are unsure of whether a particular dentist provides the services you are most interested in, simply ask!
Training and Qualifications for Cosmetic Dentistry
During dental school, all dentists gain functional knowledge of the aesthetic aspects of dentistry. For example, they learn about things like color matching, the correct shape for teeth, and more. They also learn about the techniques used in cosmetic services, including veneers and other popular treatments.
Many dentists choose to expand their cosmetic skills after they finish dental school by participating in continuing education opportunities. Plus, they gain a lot of practical experience as they treat patients with varying circumstances.
Finding the Right Dentist for Your Smile Goals
Here are some practical tips to help you find the right dentist who can help you reach your goals for your smile:
- Talk to your general dentist. Ask how they feel about cosmetic procedures, and find out if they have any suggestions on how you can improve your smile’s appearance. If you are curious about their education or credentials, you have every right to inquire about such things.
- Look at reviews. Often, online reviews can tell you a lot about other patients’ experience with a particular dentist.
- Think about other considerations. Your personal feelings about a dentist, their office location and schedule, and their financial policies can all play a role in helping you make your decision.
Many general dentists are cosmetic dentists! With a bit of research, you can find a care provider who will do all they can to help you enjoy your ideal smile.
Meet the Practice
At New Haven Dental Group, we pride ourselves on providing comprehensive oral services, including cosmetic treatments. We are passionate about the art and science of dentistry, and we love to help patients achieve their aesthetic goals. We strive to pay great attention to detail in every case we handle. To learn more about us and how we may be able to serve you, contact our Hamden location at 203-587-7327.