It is very difficult to get a cosmetic dentist who is right for you, irrespective of the amount of time you spend browsing the Internet for articles on dentistry. Such articles only describe dental experience and skills however interpersonal skills are also very important. Here are 10 things to know before picking a cosmetic dentist in Essex so that your search becomes easier.
• Do not go to the first dentist you come across on the street. Carry out extensive research. Not all cosmetic dentists would be recognized by the Dentists Association in the country you live in. Hence look for certifications and licenses. Ask friends to recommend dentists. In this way you would be able to get at least one name.
• Consider training that the cosmetic dentist has undergone in the field of cosmetic dentistry. See if the degree they have acquired is from among the top schools of dentistry. Being a licensed cosmetic dentist is not enough. Considerable experience and skill in the field is very important.
• Undergo dental examination. Ask them for a dental examination as it is the best way of knowing if a cosmetic dentist is good. Such an examination is affordable compared to any cosmetic treatment. This would help you in determining if the dentist deals with you in a professional manner. You would also be able to experience office environment. Is the dentist well organized? Is the office tidy and neat?
• Ask what is to be done to your pearly whites so that you get the perfect smile. Experienced dentists would consider all the dental problems you are suffering from and recommend many options. A cosmetic dentist should ideally consider the structure of your facial bone and shape of the gums and lips. They could suggest the treatment of braces, reconstruction or other procedures. See if the dentist is able to provide recommendations well.
• Observe how the cosmetic dentist approaches you. Dentists have to be friendly and warm. This is very important because there are a lot of people who are not happy to meet them. The ones who are nice and friendly would be able to calm the patients. This would make them feel very comfortable.
• Take a look at the work the dentists have done on their previous patients. This is the best way of evaluating the experience and skill of the dentist rather than just browsing through their portfolio.
• See that the dentist does not enjoy any bad press. Bad news about the dentist will work against them. Go for a dentist who has a great reputation.
• Think about median cost. Dentists with less experience would not charge higher fees because they want to build their practice. Those who are established would charge exorbitant rates. Go for one who charges reasonable fees so that they would give you a sparkly smile without burning a phone in your pocket.
• Rein in your expectations. Your budget would influence services you are given. You should not expect a lot if the price point is the lowest. Many people complain that their teeth have not gone white after undergoing basic teeth cleaning procedures. Bleaching procedures are a lot more expensive than basic cleaning. This treatment would be done only if you ask for it specifically or the dentist advises it and the patient agrees.
• Ask who would be doing the procedure. At times, the cosmetic dentist would make you extremely comfortable in the first appointment however during the next visit you might be surprised to find another person applying braces or installing dental implants. If the cosmetic dentist would not be performing the procedure themselves, you could ask them to acquaint you with the one who would.