I’m not sure what to do and just wanted to get a second opinion from a cosmetic dentist. I see you’ve gotten great reviews in your state. Because I live so far away, you can’t make money off of me so I think that means you’ll be bluntly honest. I’m hoping you will be. I got a total smile makeover. It cost a small fortune, as I’m sure you know. I think I made a mistake by calling around for cost instead of just getting the best. It cost a ton anyway and I’m not happy with the results. The color is darker than I asked for and one of the front teeth looks shorter than the other to me. I mentioned it to the dentist, but he said I didn’t understand cosmetic dentistry and they’re fine. He said that patients who get cosmetic work have trouble being satisfied with their smile and tend to imagine problems when their case first finishes, but after a while they realize how pretty it is. Is that right? Am I imagining things?

Lucy – Washington

Lucy,

No, you’re not imagining things, and it’s offensive that he suggested you had a psychological issue and that’s why you sought out a cosmetic procedure. You got a smile makeover because you wanted to improve your smile. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with that. Sometimes, it’s a logical decision. We’re judged by our appearance. It’s not a pretty part of our society, but it’s a realistic one. Plus, our smiles are one of the first things people notice about us. If you felt it would be beneficial to improve it, that’s absolutely fine.

It sounds like your dentist is a decent family dentist but not a highly skilled or qualified cosmetic dentist. In dental school, we’re taught that we know better than patients. That’s not true about highly trained cosmetic dentists. We know that it’s the patient’s view of their smile that matters. If you don’t think it’s gorgeous, then our job isn’t done. Period. Your porcelain veneers would be re-done. In fact, many of them have a beautiful smile guarantee.

In your position, I would get a second opinion from a truly expert cosmetic dentist. I’d look for a dentist who’s reached AACD Accreditation. AACD is the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Their accreditation program helps patients to know who are the top cosmetic dentists in the country. Any one of them will create a gorgeous smile for their patients. They will be honest with you and give you an opinion on your makeover.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Bonnie Rothwell.