Once considered a luxury only for celebrities and the wealthy, cosmetic dentistry has become much more accessible to people from all walks of life. And with so many options to choose from, there is normally a solution to fix any cosmetic complaint. It is an exciting time in dentistry, the ability to transform a person’s smile quickly and safely. Completely changing a person’s life. But how do you choose a cosmetic dentist?
It’s a question you might have asked yourself and the answer really needs consideration. Cosmetic dentistry is not just a smile makeover, it is an investment. An investment in your appearance, lifestyle, confidence and overall well being. You need to make sure the cosmetic dentist you choose is right for you.
Here at Revitalise Dental Centre, we pride ourselves on delivering a first-class service to all of our customers. In this blog, we hope to help you know what to look for when choosing a cosmetic dentist. One who will give you the beautiful smile you deserve for many years to come.
Training And Education
In the UK, cosmetic dentistry is not a recognised speciality. Meaning any registered dentist, in theory, could call themselves one. It’s important when choosing a cosmetic dentist to research what additional training and education they have undertaken. Most of the leading cosmetic dentists in the UK will undertake additional training beyond the traditional 5 years in dental school.
Here at Revitalise, our cosmetic dentist Dr Jason Smithson has achieved Diplomat Status in Restorative Dentistry from the Royal College of Surgeons of England. An organisation and registered charity which exists to advance patient care. Restorative dentistry involves replacing or rebuilding damaged teeth using a variety of treatment options such as crowns, veneers and implants. The results can have a significant impact on a person’s life by not only preventing future oral health issues, but restoring a patient’s natural smile.
Teaching and mentoring
In most professions, the ones at the top of their game are actively involved in teaching and mentoring current and emerging professionals. Not only does this display a true passion towards their work, but also shows they remain knowledgeable of new and innovative methods. In many cases, they are pioneers in a specific area of their profession.
We would recommend finding a cosmetic dentist who shows this level of passion and professionalism. A cosmetic dentist who is highly regarded by their peers is a good indicator they will give you a smile you are confident sharing with the world.
Our lead cosmetic dentist Dr Jason Smithson is actively involved in teaching and presents his innovative techniques regularly world wide. Jason is skilled in direct resin bonding and is considered a pioneer in this area of expertise. In which he is an in-demand presenter and teacher of direct composite resin artistry and minimally invasive all-ceramic restorations.
Technology and Dental Practice
Technology
Imagine you could see what your smile would look like before you went and committed to treatment. Well, this is completely possible with modern technologies. Using digital scanners and innovative software, computer mock-ups of the anticipated final result can be presented to you. Some dentists might even offer these images to you before you commit to treatment as we do.
Worried cosmetic treatments such as veneers, direct composites or even teeth whitening might look fake? Again, with the right technology, this doesn’t need to be the case. Here at Revitalise, we use the cutting edge eLAB technology to achieve consistent and reliable shade matching. Meaning your teeth will always look consistent in colour and shade.
Many technologies can contribute to the treatment you are receiving and you should take this into account when choosing a cosmetic dentist.
Practice
Cosmetic dentistry can often be a lengthy process but it is possible to significantly reduce treatment time by choosing a dental centre with the right facilities. One of the biggest factors affecting the treatment length is the creation of dental prosthesis. Typically, crowns, veneers, implants and other dental prostheses’ are made by a third party.
However, some dentists have onsite labs where all this can be created in house. Here at Revitalise, we have a state of the art laboratory on-site, where all of our dental prosthesis are made. Unlike many dental practices, we do not need to outsource our treatments to third parties. Allowing us to complete your treatment quicker whilst ensuring quality and consistency are met.
Portfolio
Most established cosmetic dentists will have an extensive portfolio of the work they have completed. Allowing you to investigate their work further. As well as discovering any awards and achievements they may have received.
Review before and after photos
When choosing a cosmetic dentist, ask them to show you before and after pictures of work, they have previously done. Specifically, ask them to show photos of patients who have had the same or similar treatment as you. This will give you an idea of how your new smile might look once completed.
If a cosmetic dentist does not have a large portfolio of work, it could mean they have not completed many cosmetic dental procedures.
Awards and achievements
It’s not uncommon in any industry to be nominated for awards by your peers and professional bodies. The dental industry is no different and awards are regularly presented to celebrate outstanding achievement. Awards are a stamp of approval that the work they produce is of outstanding quality.
Dr Jason Smithson was recently awarded the “Best Digital Central Crown” in the UK at the International Digital Dental Academy awards 2019, held at The Vox Conference Centre in Birmingham.
Do they offer the right treatment option for you?
There are many different cosmetic treatments available, all geared towards improving your smile. However, not every treatment will suit your individual needs and expectations. When choosing a cosmetic dentist, tell them what you want to achieve and ask if they can achieve this as part of a dental plan.
Here at Revitalise, we offer the following cosmetic treatments:
- Home Bleaching (“Teeth Whitening”)
- Direct Resin Bonding
- Veneers
- Crowns
- Dental Implants
- Short Term Orthodontics
Ensure they have your best interests at heart
Cosmetic dentistry is an expensive investment to make and we would like to think any cosmetic dentist offering treatment has the patient’s best interests at heart. Nevertheless, we advise you to take precautions when choosing a cosmetic dentist to make sure you get the right treatment, and the right results for you. Your dentist should have no problem answering any questions you might have. As well as listening to how you want your teeth to look.
You as a customer should always feel in control of your treatment and have the right to choose how your teeth are redesigned. With that being said, if your dentist is in disagreement for any reason they should clearly tell you their reasons why. It could be an underlying health condition or something else that might hinder treatment.
Ask about financing
Many cosmetic dentists will offer patient finance to help spread the cost of treatment over a period of time. Treatment can be expensive, but this shouldn’t prevent you from having the beautiful smile you deserve. Ask your cosmetic dentist if they offer flexible payment methods which best suits your needs and lifestyle.
Here at Revitalise Dental Centre, we offer a range of finance options. Removing the burden of having to pay for your treatment all in one go.
Tour our facilities and book your consultation
If you are looking to transform your smile but would like to discuss your options before making any commitments. Why not book in for a consultation at our eco-friendly centre located on the beautiful north Cornwall coast.
From here you can meet the team, enjoy our beautiful facilities, and meet our cosmetic dentist Dr Jason Smithson.
