A survey by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry reveals that 96 percent of adults in the U.S. believe that an attractive smile makes a person more appealing.
While most of us feel we know what a beautiful smile looks like, the reality is there is no ‘perfect’ smile. This is because we each have a different idea of what is beautiful. In fact, your cosmetic dentist may have a completely different perception of beauty than you.
Which is why it’s important for you to uncover your goals, what you like – and then have a conversation with your dentist to get on the same page.
Why the Cosmetic Consult Matters
Although a consultation is typically very short, it’s a crucial step to in your journey to achieve the smile of your dreams.
Think of the cosmetic consultation as an opportunity to sit down with your dentist, ask questions and learn more about the different options available. If you already have a procedure in mind, this is the perfect time to find out how the treatment will benefit you and what the process is like.
Before the Consultation
To get the best results from your cosmetic dentistry treatment, it’s important to have a good understanding of what you want from your smile from the very beginning. Here are a few questions you should ask yourself:
- What shade of white do I want my teeth to be – ultra-white, natural, or something in between?
- Am I looking for teeth in perfect alignment or do I prefer slight variations?
- Am I happy with the amount of teeth/gums showing when I smile?
As technology and cosmetic techniques have improved over the years, the “celebrity smile” ideal has moved on to a more natural result. More and more patients are seeking smiles that look less like a mouthful of Chiclets and more like nature intended.
Your Consultation
As part of your initial consult, you can expect to complete a mini-examination, discuss your dental history, and have a full set of digital photos taken so the dentist can get a better idea of what’s there.
You will also establish treatment goals, which is where clear communication between you and your dentist comes in. Plan to openly talk about your needs and concerns with your dentist.
From there, you can learn more about:
- Which cosmetic procedure is right for you
- Similar cases your dentist has completed
- How long treatment will take (and how soon you can begin)
To get the smile you want, you need to be prepared for honest, direct communication between you and your cosmetic dentist.
At Dentistry at East Piedmont, the first step in any cosmetic dentistry procedure is listening. We listen to each patient’s concerns and goals before offering up treatment suggestions. If you’re ready to improve your smile, reach out to our office today! We’ll be happy to set up your complimentary cosmetic consultation.
