How do you choose a cosmetic dentist?
10 questions you MUST ask your dentist before you start!
How do you know this dentist is really good at what you need? Do they have the expertise in creating the fabulous smile that you want? What input will you have in making the best decisions for your own treatment? Will you have all the options laid out for you? When choosing the cosmetic dentist that is right for you, consider asking the following questions to help you narrow down your search. We encourage you to print this information so that you can ask these questions of all the dentists that you speak with.
1. What is your philosophy of care?
At the Fine Art of Dentistry we ensure your complete satisfaction and comfort. Respectfully listening to your concerns, we will discuss with you the different options available and their likely outcomes. We will recommend the best treatment available and respect the decision you make as the best one for you. Combining the latest innovations in treatment and technology, we strive to provide premium service and exceptional results. Every time. If for any reason you are not satisfied with your care, then we either keep working until you are happy or you don’t pay… It’s that simple!
2. May I see photos of actual patients that you have treated?
An experienced cosmetic dentist will have compiled a library of treated cases and should be willing to show you before and after photos of his or her own work. Many dentists use books with pictures in them, but often these are not his or her own patients.
3. Do you have testimonials from current patients who are satisfied and enjoyed their experience with you?
The dentist you choose should have a list of REAL patients that either sent in a thank you letter or a nice comment about the dentist. (See “What our patients are saying!”)
4. How long have you been practicing COSMETIC dentistry AND where did you receive your training?
If the dentist hasn’t taken extensive, ongoing training specifically in cosmetic dentistry, you may want to think twice. There are many dentists out there and some are better than others at different procedures. You want to make sure the dentist you choose to do your procedure is very experienced at it.
Dr. Jan has taken extensive continuing education in cosmetic and neuromuscular restorative dentistry at the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. She returns to the Institute frequently and also to many other educational forums to continually enhance her skills..
5. What portion of your practice is devoted to cosmetic and neuromuscular dentistry?
Dr. Jan’s practice is focused entirely on cosmetic and neuromuscular restorative care, allowing her to devote all her skill and attention to these areas. The saying “a jack of all trades and a master of none” definitely does NOT apply here!
6. How do I know my visit will be pain and anxiety free?
Our patients are always telling us how comfortable they are and how pleasantly surprised they are with “the needle”--how little they felt! (See “what our patients are saying”). For those patients who are still anxious a small, safe pill is available to make things easier. (See "sedation dentistry" below)
7. Do you offer neuromuscular dentistry?
The comfort, function, and durability of cosmetic dentistry are greatly influenced by the position of the bite and the control of abusive forces that can be applied to the teeth by clenching and grinding habits. Neuromuscular dentistry is the best means of identifying and controlling these forces so that your new, beautiful smile can be preserved. (see “headaches and neuro-muscular dentistry”).
8. Do you offer sedation dentistry?
Oral sedation is a safe, easy way of increasing your relaxation if you are nervous about dental procedures or if the procedure is going to be a long one. Many of our patients are pleasantly surprised how quickly their appointment passes while mildly sedated and watching their favorite movie or listening to their favorite CD.
9. What technologies does your office employ?
From low-dose digital x-rays, computer imaging and lasers to state-of -the-art porcelain and computerized neuromuscular evaluation, modern offices need to employ the latest technology to provide the best treatment. We use all of these technologies to ensure your care is the best available.
10. Do you offer financing?
Many of our patients choose to pay for the investment in their smile and oral health by taking advantage of one of several easy payment plans we offer. The process is simple and allows them to enjoy the benefits of a beautiful, healthy smile right away and pay for it in convenient, monthly amounts.
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