Cosmetic dentistry is a rapidly expanding field. Many dentists have expanded their practices beyond such staples as filling cavities to offer such services as teeth whitening, veneers, and implants. With so many options, finding the right dentist for you can be difficult. Your Waco cosmetic dentist, Dr. Corbet Locke, discusses the steps you should take to find a qualified cosmetic dentist.
Ask For Referrals
If you are considering cosmetic dentistry, the first thing you should do is start talking to friends and family who already have had procedures done. Like any business, the best advertisement for cosmetic dentists is word of mouth. Ask those who have undergone cosmetic dentistry what they liked and didn’t like about their doctor, and about the quality of work done. Another excellent resource is your regular dentist. Your dentist will know which of his or her colleagues are truly qualified to perform the procedure you are considering and will be able to steer you in the right direction. Or they may perform these procedures right there in their dental office.
Meeting With the Candidates
Once you have narrowed your list down, it’s time to start meeting with the candidates. Before you start discussing what exactly you want done, it’s important to find out how qualified the dentist is. Ask about the length of time the dentist has been in practice, and the length of time he or she has been performing the procedure you are considering. Ask to see before-and-after pictures of former patients. Find out how up-to-date his or her technology is, and find out exactly what the emergency procedure is if something unexpected should happen during your treatment. It is also important to ask about cost, payments, and financing.
Your Consultation
Once you think you’ve decided on your perfect dentist, it’s time for the consultation. During the consultation, be sure to ask about exactly what the dentist will be doing during the procedure. Be sure to know exactly what the treatment plan is, and what you can reasonably expect to experience both during and after the procedure. Since cosmetic dentistry can be cost prohibitive for some patients, it’s wise to find out just how long you can expect the results of your procedure to last. Be sure to inquire about what maintenance you will need to be responsible for, and what the dentist’s policy for follow-ups and emergency repairs is. Above all, make sure you are comfortable with this dentist and his or her staff. If you decide you are not, there is nothing wrong with changing your mind before the actual procedure and seeking out a new cosmetic dentist.
Consult Your Waco Cosmetic Dentist
If you are interested in cosmetic dentistry, our Waco dentist office will be happy to discuss what we can do for you. Contact us at (254) 776-4888. We welcome patients from Waco, Woodway, McGregor, Hewitt, the 76712 zip code, and surrounding communities.