Choosing a Cosmetic Dentist
in Dallas, Texas
Cosmetic dentistry is a science. All dental problems are unique to the structure of the individual patient's mouth. And there are a myriad of different cosmetic dental procedures available to patients today. The success of many of these procedures depends upon the skill, care and judgment of the cosmetic dentist applying them. So, in a way, cosmetic dentistry isn't just a science, it's an art!
This is why you want a dentist who specializes in cosmetic dentistry. Unfortunately, not all dentists are trained in cosmetic dentistry. The American Dental Association does not issue special certifications or licenses indicating which dentists are cosmetic dentists and which are not. The dentist you go to for twice yearly check-ups is probably not going to be the same dentist you go to for cosmetic enhancement.
It is very easy, however, to find a highly-trained cosmetic dentist in your area. Cosmetic dentists obtain additional training and certification from cosmetic dentistry organizations and universities. For cosmetic dentistry procedures, you want a dentist who has taken courses at, or belongs to, a cosmetic-dentistry-specific organization such as the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, PAC-Live or the America Society of Dental Aesthetics. By looking into the credentials of a specific dentist you are assured that your cosmetic dentist has training in the most up-to-date, safest cosmetic dentistry procedures available.
There are four initial steps to take in your search for a highly-trained cosmetic dentist:
- Ask your friends and family for references.
- Ask your dentist and/or doctor if there's anyone he or she recommends.
- Check with the aforementioned accredited cosmetic dentistry organizations:
- Refer to directories, commercials, web sites and other advertising.
(This step should only be used as a very basic starting point as, obviously, the information contained within can be biased towards the person or organization being advertised.)
Once you've found a cosmetic dentist you think you'll be comfortable with, you should:
- Verify credentials and training. Typically, you want a dentist who is exclusively a cosmetic dentist or at least one who devotes the majority of their practice to cosmetic dentistry. Ask your dentist questions about how long they've been practicing cosmetic dentistry, what organizations they belong to, what specific cosmetic dentistry training they have (not just dental training), and ask to see some before and after photos of previous patients.
- Ask your dentist how many times he has performed the procedure you're having.
- Ask the dentist for references.
If you feel uncomfortable with any of his answers, it's probably best if you continue your search for a cosmetic dentist.
If you live in the Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, Plano, Irving, Grapevine, Texas area, contact Dr. Alhadef today. He is a graduate of the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies and is specially trained in a full range of cosmetic dentistry services. He has specialized training in cosmetic dentistry techniques and can help you achieve your ideal smile.
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800-930-8803
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Gary E. Alhadef, DDS
8226 Douglas Ave Suite 753
Dallas, Tx 75225
