A Pre-Cosmetic Dentistry Checklist

All smile makeovers begin with a one-on-one consultation with your cosmetic dentist. During this meeting, you’ll have a lot of ground to cover. First, you’ll discuss which aspects of your smile you’d like to improve, whether it’s a chipped tooth you’ve been sporting since middle school or severe enamel discolorations due to tetracycline therapy. Next, your dentist will suggest different techniques for improving your smile and together you’ll develop a smile makeover treatment plan. But before you schedule that first cosmetic appointment, you owe it to yourself to make sure you’ve addressed all the points on our checklist.

Check 1: You’re Happy with the Smile Design

You have to live with your smile once all the cosmetic and restorative work is complete. So, if your dentist has shown you a mock-up of what your smile will look like at the conclusion of treatment and you’re not 100% happy with it, you need to voice your concerns. It could simply be a matter of needing time to adjust to your new look (especially if the changes will be dramatic) or you have nagging concerns about the invasiveness of a given procedure. Regardless of the cause, your dentist wants you to be happy with your new smile and he will gladly tweak your treatment plan to meet your needs.

Check 2: Your Teeth and Gums are in Good Health

The most beautifully designed house in the world won’t stand for long if the foundation is compromised. Similarly, the best cosmetic dental work available won’t last if the foundation – your teeth and gums – have lingering health issues. Prior to proceeding with a cosmetic dental treatment plan, your dentist will want to make sure any decay, gum disease, or old, broken dental work has been taken care of and your mouth is in tip-top shape. Once you receive a clean bill of oral health, the aesthetic improvement of your smile can begin.

Check 3: You’re Committed to Upkeep

Whether you’re opting to have a chipped tooth bonded or a set of porcelain veneers placed on your four front teeth, ensuring the long life of your cosmetic work depends on regular, consistent care at home complemented by regular visits to the dentist for a cleaning and checkup. Different materials and procedures have different best practices for upkeep, so talk to your dentist about them and then seriously consider whether you can provide the upkeep needed.

About Dr. Mark Miller

At Snow Park Dental, Dr. Miller provides the preventive and restorative dental care your family needs to enjoy optimal oral health. Contact us today at (505) 596-4479 to schedule a consultation or appointment at our Albuquerque, NM dentist’s office. We proudly serve families from Rio Rancho, Corrales, Edgewood, Tijeras, Los Lunas, and surrounding communities.

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