Choosing the Right Dentist

Just as no two smiles are alike, the same applies to dentists. If you are considering changing the look of your teeth, be sure the dentist offering treatment is thouroughly experienced and you feel comfortable and confident with their abilities.

What should I look for in a dentist?

Education and experience are most important. Despite many dentists in Australia labelling themselves as a ‘cosmetic dentist’, be aware that no such designation is recognised in the dental industry. In fact, any graduate can finish dental school and immediately call themselves a cosmetic dentist!

A true aesthetic dentist has years of experience, learning the fine art of creating smiles that complement the face and improve functionality, with the ability to treat patients using a broad range of techniques and materials.

What to Ask Your Dentist:

• What extended education or training have you undertaken since university?
  There are many weekend seminars and courses that dentists take to build up their image. Look for a dentist who has undergone further academic and practical training, perhaps specialising in a recognised field of dentistry.
• Can I see photos of your work?
  This is really important. Be aware some dentists use stock or bought images. This will give you an idea of the level detail and ability a dentist has.
• What techniques and methods they offer?
  A well versed and experienced clinician can provide a wide variety of treatments to truly suit each patient’s unique needs, rather than repeatedly using the same technique they are personally most comfortable with. Be wary of dentists which focus on one type of restoration, such as porcelain veneers, as some dentists lack the confidence to design a beautiful and functional smile themselves, and rely solely on their ceramist to make decisions.
• How much Aesthetic or Cosmetic work do they complete?
  

  There is a huge difference between a dentist who completes a few smile makeovers a month or per year, compared with a dentist who completes several smile makeovers each week! Find a dentist whose clinical focus and passion is creating new smiles. A general dentist might be familiar with a cosmetic treatment, but the end result will be far from the final product an experienced aesthetic dentist can provide.

• What are the costs?
  

  Price can either be very alluring or very deterring depending on which end of the scale your dentist sits. Like all things in life, too cheap might indicate too good to be true. Don’t be lured in by heavy discounting, but also remember that a higher price isn’t always an indication of quality. Keep in mind the above points, and you will be able to assess how much money you are willing to spend and where you should spend it. Discuss payment plans and alternative affordable treatment options, and don’t be afraid to shop around. Learn more about the cost of composite veneers.

If you would like to know more about composite veneers or any other cosmetic or aesthetic dental treatment, please feel free to contact the Melbourne Aesthetic Dental Centre for more information.