You want to enhance your smile, but you also want your dental cosmetics to be done right. Do you need to find a certified cosmetic dentist, or would a general dentist be able to improve your aesthetics? What sort of qualifications are involved in these types of treatments?
These are all good questions, and this post will answer them! Keep reading so you know what to look for in a cosmetic dentist.
Requirements to Be a Dentist
The first thing you should know is that before they can achieve any sort of dental specialization, professionals must meet the minimum requirements for being a dentist. That means completing undergraduate education and receiving a DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) or DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine) from a recognized university. Their studies will involve a mix of classroom and hands-on experience, as well as residency.
Requirements for Cosmetic Dentistry
Of the 12 specializations recognized by the American Dental Association, cosmetic dentistry is not one of them. Unfortunately, this does mean that any general dentist who provides veneers, direct bonding, teeth whitening, and other similar services can claim to be an expert. Don’t worry, though – there might not be a board establishing certification criteria for cosmetic dentists, but there are other ways to tell whether a dentist will be a good fit.
What to Look For
When considering a cosmetic dentist, it helps to go straight to their bio page. There, you should find information about any advanced training courses they’ve taken, continuing education programs they’ve completed, and prestigious organizations they have experience with. These three things essentially show that a dentist has learned from seasoned dental cosmeticians.
You should also check out smile galleries and reviews when available. The proof is in the pudding, as they say, and seeing the results of a dentist’s handiwork will definitely help you find quality treatment!
Conclusion
Finding a qualified cosmetic dentist might not be as straightforward as other specialties, but many general dentists do spend a lot of time honing their aesthetic skills. With a little bit of digging, you can find a provider you feel confident in!
About the Author
Dr. Kara Arnold earned her DDS from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She diligently pursues continuing education opportunities and has completed advanced training in dental ceramics and intraoral scanning. If you’re looking for dental cosmetic treatment in Parker, Dr. Arnold will enhance your smile and make sure you’re comfortable during your visit! To contact her office, call 303-797-6453.