More people than ever before are turning towards cosmetic dentistry to receive the smile of their dreams—in fact, according to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the demand for cosmetic dental work has doubled within the last five years. That said, if you’re curious about joining the masses in receiving an upgraded smile, you might have a few initial questions. Here are things you should ask during your cosmetic dental consultation in Skokie to ensure that you feel confident about committing to treatment.
1. “What Can I Expect from My Results?”
You probably have some type of end-goal in mind for your smile, so you should make sure that what you’re picturing can actually be made possible by your dentist! You should describe what you’re hoping to achieve—are you hoping to brighten and whiten your smile? Do you have damaged or misshapen teeth you’d like fixed? Are your teeth misaligned and crooked? Your dentist will work with you to determine which treatment option is best, based on the results you’re seeking. You can discuss the expected outcome in terms of color, texture, shape, and so on.
2. “What Is My Expected Timeline for Treatment?”
You’ll probably want to have a good idea about how long the treatment process will take from start to finish. Some procedures, like in-office teeth whitening, can be completed in just one visit and provide results rather quickly. Other treatment options, like porcelain veneers or clear aligners, can take multiple appointments and much longer to fully complete. Having a rough timeline in mind can help you decide whether or not to go through with a particular procedure.
3. “How Much Will It Cost to Enhance My Smile?”
Price is usually a major determining factor for many patients that contemplate dental work. It’s also worth noting that many insurance plans do not cover cosmetic procedures, as they’re often considered elective and don’t address potential health issues! This means that your dentist will be completely transparent about the cost of dental work; they might also offer in-house financing options to assist you with payment!
4. “Will the Treatment Hurt?”
Many patients are concerned about potential pain when it comes to any type of dental work. However, most cosmetic work is typically painless, or it’s easily managed with sedation or anesthesia. You should ask your dentist about how any discomfort or sensitivity will be managed, both during and after the procedure.
5. “How Long Does Cosmetic Dental Work Last?”
Since every patient’s smile and circumstances differ, your dentist might not be able to give you a specific estimation for how long your results will last before needing refreshment. However, they should be able to give you a rough estimate or range. Some treatments, such as teeth whitening, need to be touched up every couple of years in order to keep their impressive results. Other treatments can last for a surprisingly long time—veneers can endure for well over a decade if they’re properly cared for!
There’s no limit to what questions you can ask during your cosmetic dental consultation; but the more you know, the better you’ll feel about whatever treatment you decide is best for your smile.
About the Author
Dr. Brad Weiss has proudly served the dental needs of the Skokie, IL area for several years. Dr. Weiss received his dental doctorate from the Indiana University School of Dentistry and is a proud Fellow of the renowned American College of Dentists. His practice is thrilled to offer an impressive range of available services including various cosmetic options. If you have any questions about a particular cosmetic treatment or would like to arrange a visit, you can contact Dr. Weiss online or over the phone for assistance: (847) 864-0188.