3 Recommendations Before Visiting a Cosmetic Dentist

If you are self-conscious about your smile, it could be time to visit a cosmetic dentist. Cosmetic dentists are dental health professionals whose primary focus is improving the appearance of your overall smile. Cosmetic dentistry may include implants, whitening treatments, fillings, and veneers.

Before seeing a new oral health care professional, you may want to have an idea of what to expect and how to prepare. Here are three recommendations to help you start your journey toward a more beautiful grin.

3 things to know when seeking cosmetic dentistry

Seeing a new healthcare professional can be nerve-wracking, especially when you do not know what to anticipate. This information will put your mind at ease when you make your first appointment with a cosmetic dental professional.

1. Preparing for the visit

Before undergoing cosmetic dental treatments, it is important to address any underlying oral health concerns to ensure the best possible results. While cosmetic procedures enhance the appearance of teeth, they do not treat existing dental issues such as decay, gum disease, or structural weaknesses. Addressing these concerns beforehand helps create a stable foundation for long-lasting cosmetic enhancements.

Common dental issues that may need attention before cosmetic treatment include:

• Tooth decay – While materials like porcelain veneers or dental crowns do not decay, the natural tooth underneath remains susceptible to cavities. If decay is present, it must be treated before cosmetic restorations are placed to prevent further deterioration.
• Worn teeth – Teeth that are significantly worn down due to grinding or erosion may not provide enough surface area for procedures like veneers or bonding to adhere properly. In such cases, treatments like bite correction or protective restorations may be necessary first.
• Gaps and misalignment – While cosmetic treatments can improve the appearance of minor spacing issues, significant gaps or misaligned teeth may require orthodontic treatment for both functional and aesthetic reasons before cosmetic work is performed.

To ensure long-term success with cosmetic dentistry, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential. Brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups help preserve both natural teeth and cosmetic restorations. Consulting with a dentist before cosmetic procedures can help identify any necessary preliminary treatments, ensuring a healthy, beautiful, and lasting smile.

2. What to bring to the consultation

Many people meeting with a cosmetic dentist for the first time are nervous and excited. It is likely you have been waiting for years, even decades, to have the smile of your dreams. To ensure you communicate your wishes flawlessly, prepare a list of questions to keep you focused. Questions to ask include:

• How many times have you performed this type of procedure?
• Can you achieve the look I want?
• How much will this work cost?
• How long will this take?
• Will my ability to eat and speak be temporarily impacted?

In addition to a list of questions, it is wise to bring a photograph of the smile you envision to the consultation with your cosmetic dentist. Since no two mouths or smiles are identical, do not expect to achieve the exact results you see in photos. However, this can provide your dentist with an idea of the direction you would like to go in. It can also give him or her an idea of the issues you seek to address and what treatments will work well for you.

Let the dentist know about your at-home oral care treatment. Let him or her know if you use professional whitening treatment and how often you brush your teeth every day. Even knowing the type of toothbrush you use can help us figure out the extent of your problems and how to care for you.

3. What to expect at the visit

At an initial visit to the cosmetic dentist, anticipate both aesthetic and conventional evaluations. The dentist will examine your teeth, gums, and bite. X-rays may be taken as well. The aesthetic portion is less objective and involves a discussion between you and the professional to determine how to proceed.

During your visit, remember to pull out your list of questions. As you discuss your treatment options, question any aspect you do not understand. By the time you leave the dental office, you should have a clear idea of the procedures waiting for you, the cost, and how long it takes to heal from the visit.

Get treatment today

Making an appointment with a cosmetic dentist is a thrilling time for people who are uncomfortable with showing off their pearly whites. Cosmetic dentistry can fix discolored, misaligned, and crooked teeth to restore confidence. Prepare for a positive experience by having good overall oral health and knowing what you hope to gain.

Request an appointment here: https://www.riversdentistry.com or call Rivers Family Dentistry at (979) 710-2216 for an appointment in our Bryan office.

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