Would you like to spruce up your smile? Whether you are preparing for an upcoming event or simply want to give yourself a nice pick-me-up, you might be thinking about visiting a cosmetic dentist for a consultation. How can you prepare for your appointment? You can start by making a list of questions that you want your dentist to address. Here are some ideas to get you started:
What Kind of Results Can I Expect?
Cosmetic dentistry has the potential to powerfully transform the way your teeth look. However, it is still important that you manage your expectations. Ask your dentist if they use smile design software that they can use to give you a realistic preview of how you might look after your procedure. It can help you and your dental team to remain on the same page throughout your treatment.
How Long Will the Treatment Take?
Some treatments are quite fast. In fact, in-office teeth whitening and dental bonding both usually take just one appointment. Other services, though, can take a few weeks or longer to complete. For example, veneers and other types of restorations typically require a minimum of two appointments.
If you want your treatment to be completed before a specific date, let your dental team know. They will tell you whether or not your services can realistically be completed by your target deadline.
Does the Treatment Come with Any Risks/Downsides?
Cosmetic dentistry is generally quite safe. However, it is still worth your time to think about the pros and cons of any treatment you are considering. For example, veneers are one of the most natural-looking and long-lasting ways to enhance the appearance of teeth, but they do require that the underlying dentition gets modified. Teeth whitening is effective, but the results may last anywhere from just a few months to a few years. It is also worth asking if a given treatment is likely to cause a temporary increase in dental sensitivity.
How Long Will the Results Last?
Your dental team cannot make any guarantees about how long your new look will last. However, they can give you a ballpark estimate. For example, they might tell you that dental bonding often lasts around 5 years or so, whereas veneers may last up to 20 years. They can also provide tips to help you maintain your results for as long as possible.
How Much Will It Cost?
The cost of cosmetic dentistry can vary from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. Ask your dental team for a detailed price estimate so you can prepare your budget to meet your financial obligation. You can also ask about your payment options. Many practices offer convenient low-interest financing.
Meet the Practice
Drs. Benjamin Hornstein and Shawn Schlessel are proud to provide top-quality oral health services to the Beachwood community. Both of them have extensive training and experience in cosmetic procedures. If you are interested in improving the appearance of your smile, they would be happy to consult with you. To learn more about how our practice may be able to serve you, contact The Center for Advanced Dentistry at 216-595-1710.