One thing great cosmetic dentists have to face is repairing disastrous work done by other dentists. This happens so often I thought it best to be proactive. If you’re considering getting a smile makeover, there are some precautions you can take to ensure you will have a gorgeous smile that you’re delighted to show off. Porcelain veneers can give you a stunning smile, but only if done by the right cosmetic dentist.

Getting a gorgeous smile makeover requires a skilled cosmetic dentist

Step One— Do Some Initial Research

Cosmetic dentistry is not a recognized specialty with the American Dental Association (ADA). What that means is any general dentist can call themselves a cosmetic dentist regardless of the amount of training they have or don’t have. There’s very limited cosmetic work taught in dental school. Therefore, those who want a cosmetic focus in their practice have to make an effort to get the training they need. You’ll want a dentist who’s done that.

Ask them where they studied their cosmetic work. If all they mention is dental school, move on. Additionally, look at their smile gallery. It’s one thing to say they create beautiful smiles, it’s another to back it up.

Step Two— Make Sure They Stand Behind Their Work

While we’re on the topic of backing up their claims, make sure whatever dentist you see has some form of guarantee. Check out Dr. Rothwell’s beautiful smile guarantee.

Step Three— If Possible, Go to an AACD Accredited Dentist

The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry has an accreditation program. It’s a way to help patients know not only which dentists have the technical skill but the artistry. Those who’ve completed their accreditation program have passed several examinations, both oral and written. They also have to show many, many cases they’ve personally done to show they’re not just technical but artistic as well.

Now, becoming accredited takes a long time. Not many dentists have reached that level yet, but that doesn’t mean their skill and artistry aren’t up to par. In fact, there are some incredible cosmetic dentists who may be on their way to accreditation but haven’t had time to complete the process yet. If you don’t have an accredited dentist in your area, it’s worth traveling to get the right smile. But, before you do that, I’d also check with the mynewsmile.com website. They recommend highly skilled and artistic cosmetic dentists by area. You’d be safe with any dentist listed on their site as well.

However, if there isn’t a dentist from either group in your area, then I think you may need to travel a bit to get the smile you want.

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