Cosmetic Dentist Near Me

There are ten specific branches of dentistry. Specialty areas that the dentist spends additional time after college to train in. Cosmetic dentistry maple grove minnesota is not recognized as one of these specific disciplines. The ADA, American Dental Association, does not recognize a cosmetic dentist. Therefore, many general dentists can claim to be a cosmetic dentist. To confuse the issue, of the five major cosmetic dental procedures your general dentist does indeed do several of them. Let’s identify those cosmetic procedures and then throw some questions out when attempting to find a cosmetic dentist near you.

The Five Major Cosmetic Dental Procedures

Cosmetic dentistry is more about perception. It is a procedure that will either restore your natural smile or improve your smile. Your smile is an invaluable asset. It drives your personality and is foundational to your level of self-esteem and self-confidence. When you consider one of these procedures make sure the dentist shares your concerns and your goals.

Teeth Whitening- this is the most common procedure. Having this done professionally in a dental office will immediately deliver stunning results. Red wine, colas and tobacco all create stains and discoloration over time. Your teeth will look as they should look again, sparkling white.

Dental Bonding- the dentist places a putty-like composite resin on the front surface of the tooth and sculpts, shapes and smooths it out. Once hardened with an ultra-violet light it will cover any cracks or chips and make the tooth look new.

Dental Veneers- taking the bonding to the next level, the veneer is a wafer-thin piece of porcelain or ceramic custom fabricated in a dental lab just for that particular tooth. Once cemented in place again the tooth will look like new.

Dental Crown- the crown acts more like a cap covering the entire tooth, not just the front. This can be a cosmetic procedure or a logistical one saving a tooth that has gone through a root canal procedure.

Dental Implants-the new gold standard for a replacement tooth, the cosmetic dentist surgically places a titanium post in the jawbone where the tooth is missing. Once this post has fused to the bone an extension is placed to reach the gumline surface and an artificial crown is affixed to the post. You cannot tell this replacement from the natural tooth.

Questions to Ask in Locating a Cosmetic Dentist Near You

You can start with your trusted family dentist. They may do several of these procedures already. If not, they can suggest a referral through a relationship. You can ask a family member or a friend. Once you have identified an office begin by asking the training acquired in regard to the procedure. You can ask about accreditation with the AACD, American Association of Cosmetic Dentistry. If they understand the visual goals behind the procedures, they will have before and after photos of prior patients.  Make sure you are comfortable in the office and continue to ask questions. Do not rush through the consultation. This is about your smile and your effort in achieving a smile-makeover.

More on Cosmetic Dentistry : Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures