What is cosmetic dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry at Smile Eden Prairie can improve your appearance by improving your smile, which can lead to greater confidence and self-esteem. You may think only of cosmetic dentistry only as the application of veneers or tooth-whitening gels, but there’s much more behind cosmetic dentistry than meets the eye. The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry mandates the practice of responsible, ethical procedures that improve and maintain not only the appearance of the teeth, but also their health and function. Just as all responsible medical practitioners operate with the Hippocratic ideal of “first, do no harm,” so must cosmetic dentistry providers. Cosmetic dentistry should complement the overall health, including the dental health, of patients, using treatment based on evidence and good clinical judgment. Cosmetic dentistry providers are encouraged to integrate minimally invasive treatment protocols that enhance outcomes that are both healthful and aesthetic. Cosmetic dentistry providers are also encouraged to stay up-to-date on technological and material innovations that improve the outcome and endurance of aesthetic procedures.
Because cosmetic dentistry is not a recognized specialty for dentists, any dentist can claim the title of “cosmetic dentist,” regardless of skill or experience. In 1984, Drs. Jack Kammer and Jeff Morley founded the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry in order to develop and maintain standards for the cosmetic dentistry industry, as well as to provide a set of ethical and practical guidelines to cosmetic dentistry providers. Since its inception, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry has become a widely trusted and respected organization, including more than 6,000 dental professionals from around the world. Dentists who are registered with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry are recognized as striving to be the best in their field.
Whether you are seeking a simple teeth-whitening procedure or a more significant surgical cosmetic procedure, like dental implants, there are numerous criteria you can use to make sure you’ve found the cosmetic dentist who’s best equipped to help restore your smile. For some patients, convenience and cost are the foremost criteria they use to decide on a practitioner. However, it’s also important to assess the training and education of the cosmetic dentists you’re researching, as well as their experience and skill in cosmetic dentistry. Because very few dental schools offer programs in cosmetic dentistry, make sure the dentist you select has elected post-graduate training in cosmetic dentistry procedures from a reputable and respected cosmetic dentistry program. In addition to simply registering with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, many dedicated cosmetic dentists also elect to apply for accreditation in the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, a process that requires practical examinations and assessments, so check to see if your selected dentist has opted for this credential. Additionally, ask about the experience of the dentists you’re researching. Find out how many years of experience they have, and also how much of their practice is devoted to cosmetic dentistry; as with any artistic project, experience can lead to expertise, so it is likely that a more experienced cosmetic dentist has greater demonstrated success. To be certain of this, don’t be afraid to ask for before-and-after photos of the dentist’s previous cosmetic dentistry projects, and search online for reviews and testimonials, or ask the dentist for this information directly. In some instances, dentists will provide you with contact information who have had procedures that are similar to yours; don’t be afraid to use contact these former patients as you gather information! Make sure you feel comfortable and cared for by an experienced, professional cosmetic dentist to ensure that you are happy with your cosmetic procedure from beginning to end.
More on Cosmetic Dentistry : Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures