Cosmetic Dentistry in Plano, TX
It seems as if every dentist is a cosmetic dentist. Why is this so? Well, for starters, the time in which we live is one where patients demand high dental aesthetics.
A cosmetic dentist seeks to deliver these aesthetic demands. Secondly, most all dentists desire to always take a smile and make it more beautiful. Does this make them a cosmetic dentist? What do patients need to know about their cosmetic dentist in Plano, TX?
What is Cosmetic Dentistry?
According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry…..
“Cosmetic dentistry is dentistry aimed at creating a positive change to your teeth and to your smile. Most think of tooth whitening or veneers when cosmetic dentistry comes to mind, but a cosmetic dentist can provide much more.
A skilled, experienced cosmetic dentist can help to improve your appearance, your smile, even your self-esteem, and confidence. Today, cosmetic dentistry has continued to evolve to where cosmetic dentists can address functional and aesthetic patient concerns.”
What is a Cosmetic Dentist?
Notice that the AACD’s definition includes mention of skill and experience. Why is this important? Because, a cosmetic dentist is not necessarily a dental specialist. According to the American Dental Association (the same people that place their seal of approval on your toothpaste), there are only 9 recognized dental specialties.
The ADA accredits dental specialty programs to ensure that they meet preset demands and requirements. In short, all dental specialists have been through 2-4 additional years of focused study after dental school. Then many continue on to challenge their respective board (the clinical equivalent to an attorney’s bar exam). Why is this important? Look back at the ADA list of dental specialties. One should note that cosmetic dentistry does not make the list.
General Questions About Cosmetic Dentistry
We have a lot of questions that come in from our patients regarding cosmetic dentistry. Here are the most common questions we receive.
Is Cosmetic Dentistry Covered By Insurance?
Many dental insurance companies will pay for some of the dental procedures that would fall under cosmetic dentistry. This is dependent on your plan and the type of treatment you are having done. For example, tooth whitening may not be covered, but dental implants or crowns can qualify.
When Will Cosmetic Dentistry Reopen?
During the pandemic, many dental offices were asked to shut down their non-emergent care, because they were considered non-essential services However, most states re-opened dental offices for all procedures beginning 4-6 weeks after the initial shut down. Cosmetic dentists in every state will follow the guidelines outlined by the CDC and the ADA. Here at Pro Dental Dallas, we are offering our cosmetic dentistry services.
Are Veneers Cosmetic Dentistry?
Yes, veneers are considered cosmetic dentistry. A veneer is a thin piece of porcelain that is attached to the natural teeth. They can be used to whiten teeth, close in gaps, and other aesthetic reasons.
What Are Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures?
Cosmetic dentistry procedures range from full mouth makeovers to simple crowns. These procedures can include dental implants, crown prep, teeth whitening, bridges, and more.
How to Become a Cosmetic Dentist in Plano, TX?
Since cosmetic dentistry is not a dental specialty, how does one become a cosmetic dentist? Sadly, it can be as simple as a self-proclaimed title. Because it is not a governed dental specialty, any dentist can call themselves a cosmetic dentist. When one is looking for a cosmetic dentist, it is important that they do their homework.
Understand that dentists are not created equal. Some have additional training, other years of experience. Make sure that your cosmetic dentist is trained in cosmetic dentistry.
ADA Requirements
Only 2 ADA dental specialties focus on cosmetic dentistry: Orthodontics (straightening teeth) and Prosthodontics. According to the ADA…..
“Prosthodontics is the dental specialty pertaining to the diagnosis, treatment planning, rehabilitation and maintenance of the oral function, comfort, appearance and health of patients with clinical conditions associated with missing or deficient teeth and/or oral and maxillofacial tissues using biocompatible substitutes.”
What is a Prosthodontist?
Prosthodontists spend 3 additional years beyond dental school studying tooth morphology, occlusion (how your bite comes together), and dental materials. Many prosthodontists have spent countless hours, days, and months fabricating the very dental prosthetic that they are delivering to their patients.
This is important because, dental crowns, veneers, bridges, and implants are highly technique sensitive. They require extreme attention to detail. Prosthodontists hone their skills fabricating countless restorations so that they are extremely skilled and experienced when a patient demands only the highest esthetics.
Contact us Today For Cosmetic Dentistry
When searching for a cosmetic dentist in Plano, TX, make sure that you are choosing a dentist with some credentials. You deserve the best when it comes to your smile. Do your homework. Choose carefully. And, if you feel, we have the credentials you seek, we look forward to meeting you soon! Give us a call if you have any questions at 972-931-1777.
