Are you interested in enhancing your smile with cosmetic dentistry? If so, then you’ll want to schedule an initial consultation with your dentist. During this appointment, they’ll be able to assess your oral health and understand your specific smile goals. This is also the perfect time for you to understand as much as possible about your treatment before committing to any procedures. Read on to learn four essential questions you should ask your dentist during your cosmetic dental consultation!
#1: Am I A Good Candidate For the Procedure?
Not every cosmetic treatment is meant for every patient. For instance, a person who is suffering from underlying dental health issues like cavities or gum disease will need to have these addressed with the necessary procedures before they can get teeth whitening or veneers. Any developing complications that are left untreated can become more difficult to fix if the cosmetic dental work is done beforehand. Your dentist will be sure to detect any issues before beginning your desired treatment to avoid any problems later on.
#2: Can I See Before and After Shots of Patients with Similar Concerns?
Make sure to ask your dentist if you can see before and after pictures of patients who were experiencing similar dental issues. This can give you a good idea of what to expect from your results after getting veneers, teeth whitening, or dental bonding. Not only will this help you feel more comfortable, but you’ll also feel confident that your dentist can help you accomplish your dream smile.
#3: What Are the Risks & Benefits of the Procedure?
It’s important to understand both the benefits and the risks of your chosen treatment. This is because you’ll want to avoid any surprises when going into your procedure. That said, feel free to discuss with your cosmetic dentist the pros and cons of your dental work to help you make an informed decision.
#4: What Is the Estimated Cost of My Treatment?
Understanding the overall cost of your cosmetic treatment is crucial when considering how you’ll finance your procedure. However, several variables can impact how much you’ll have to pay, including whether the procedure is minimally invasive or not. If it’s more extensive, then you might consider discussing alternative financing options to help make your payments more manageable, such as CareCredit.
These are only a few important questions to ask during your cosmetic dental consultation to help you be well-informed. Once you understand everything you need to know about your treatment, you’ll be one step closer to achieving your dream smile!
About the Authors
Dr. Gary Chaffee earned his dental degree from the Loma Linda University School of Dentistry. He regularly seeks continuing education to refine his techniques and is a member of several groups like the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and the California Dental Association. He provides a wide range of all-inclusive treatments, including teeth whitening, dental bonding, and veneers. If you’d like to schedule an initial consultation, visit his website or call him at 805-480-0033.