Selecting a cosmetic dentist is probably the most critical decisions you can make. You are to select an experienced who'll help change your appearance by changing the look of your teeth and your smile.

Some of the procedures you will undergo are not reversible. The thing is to ensure your comfort and confidence with the expertise of your cosmetic dentist. With such a mental frame, you will likely be happy and satisfied.

Referrals

Your general dentist should be able to recommend the perfect cosmetic dentist for you. He or she knows the current status of your teeth, gums, and your other related dental conditions.

Your friends or relatives who might have undergone a smile makeover may also recommend their doctors.

Pre-consultation

Before you set up a consultation appointment with your prospective cosmetic dentist, do your requisite investigation.

How extensive is his dental practice? Are you impressed by the before-and-after photos of his previous patients?

Does he have imaging technology and other aids when recommending procedure options? Does he have other modern dental technologies (lasers, caries detection devices, CAD/CAM restoration) used in his practice?

Is the candidate cosmetic dentist a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry? (The academy requires adherence to rigorous study, ethical standards and examination to qualify as an accredited member.)

Consultation

During your consultation with your cosmetic dentist, discuss what you like and do not like about your smile. This is the one time you and the cosmetic dentist will establish realistic expectations about your dental treatment.

You will be referred to smile design books with before-and-after photos of cosmetic dental treatments. There would also be a review of different tooth sizes and shapes to see what fits and appeals to you.

Nowadays, cosmetic dentists use computer monitors so both of you can review your smile tooth by tooth. This is for your understanding on what can be changed and how.

Results, surely, may vary depending on the skills of your chosen dentist. Since you have been apprised of his / her skills beforehand, your expectations won't be much at variance with the outcome.

Records

Your dental records are also important during consultations with your cosmetic dentist. They're important in developing a precise cosmetic dental treatment plan unique to your case and needs.

These would typically include the comprehensive intra-oral examination (including photos and X-rays), and teeth impressions.

Diagnosis and treatment plans

If a diagnosis and treatment plan is given during consultation with your cosmetic dentist, be sure you understand it completely, including any viable treatment alternatives.

Also, make sure you are completely comfortable with the thoroughness of the presented details given. By doing this, you can make an educated decision on the dental treatment you will pursue.

Costs

Finally, discuss the payment or financing options. (This might be undertaken with the dentist's office manager.)

This is important because it can help you manage the expense of your cosmetic dentistry treatment. Cosmetic dental treatments are not typically covered by dental insurance. Dental clinics of some cosmetic dentists sometimes offer in-house payment options.