Any type of cosmetic surgery is a scary prospect, because you're dealing with outer and superficial issues. When the surgery is complete, there is always a risk that whatever you were trying to fix will not look as you expected it to. Therefore, when choosing as cosmetic dentist, as with any other cosmetic specialist, knowing the quality of their work is crucial.

1. If you don't have to, don't just scan the phone book or the internet to find the dentist. If at all possible, speak with your friends and family to see if any of them have had either the same or a similar procedure done that you're going to have. If they have, find out who they used, and if they were satisfied with the results.
2. If you don't know of anyone who has had the same or a similar procedure, and you cannot get a recommendation from someone you know, ask your regular dentist who he or she recommends. If you trust your dentist, there is a good chance that the doctors they know and work with have similar reputations.
3. Once you have narrowed down the dentist, check to make sure they are board certified, and find out where they received their degree. I would want to make sure whoever I chose went to a reputable school.
4. Ask to scan photos to see resulting work from the dentist, preferably with the same procedure. Some doctors might have clients who are willing to talk to perspective patients to give opinions on the dr. or the procedure.
5. Never be afraid to ask questions. Most likely your insurance is not covering the procedure, and cosmetic surgery is expensive. You have the right to have as much information and detail as makes you comfortable.

Learn more about this author, Debbie N.
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