A smile makeover can help improve a person's overall appearance and self-confidence. However, modern cosmetic dentistry offers patients so many cosmetic dentistry options that the process can sometimes be intimidating. The initial consultation is the patient's chance to explain what the goal for the makeover is, find out what procedures are available, get questions answered and plan out a treatment schedule and budget.
The initial consultation is a multi-step process that usually begins with a conversation between the patient and the dentist about the patient's goals for treatment and the available dental procedures. The dentist will explain how changing the size, shape and position of the teeth can achieve the desired outcome.
The consultation is a good time to address any questions or concerns an individual has about the upcoming smile makeover. Patients should ask the dentist about these topics:
If the patient elects to continue with the smile makeover, the next step after the initial conversation is a comprehensive dental exam. This exam may be performed at the same time as the initial consultation or scheduled for a later date. The dentist will assess the overall health of the patient's teeth and gums, existing dental work and any issues that need to be corrected, as well as take any necessary X-rays and impressions of the teeth and mouth.
At this point, the dentist may be able to recommend a treatment plan; however, for more complex cases, the dentist may need to review the information gathered before making recommendations. Once the dentist has completed the assessment, a full discussion of the types of treatments available to the patient can be had. Common procedures include teeth whitening, dental veneers, composite bonding, tooth implants, white fillings and braces or aligners.
After the treatment options have been explained to the patient, a coordinator will discuss the costs of the various procedures. The coordinator will also help the individual getting the smile makeover plan out a schedule for the various procedures to be performed and provide a treatment plan to take home to review before scheduling the first appointment. Most cosmetic dental procedures are not covered by insurance; however, financing is often available.
By the time the initial consultation is complete, the patient should know how many appointments will need to be scheduled to complete the smile makeover, how far apart those appointments will need to be scheduled and the total estimated cost of treatment. With this information in hand, if the patient decides to move forward, the initial appointment can be scheduled.
Many people may find the prospect of having a smile makeover both exciting and confusing. The initial consultation serves to provide the potential patient with all the information needed to choose a treatment plan that accomplishes their goals, while also fitting their schedule and budget.
Are you considering a smile makeover in the Palos Verdes Estates area? Get more information at https://www.lunadabaydental.com.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Wondering if a dental cleaning helps prevent gum disease? Preventive dentistry, including routine dental cleanings, is essential to having a healthy mouth because it helps patients avoid cavities, enamel wear, and gum disease. Therefore, regular dental cleanings are crucial to a dental patient's oral health.Signing up for a dental cleaning on a regular basis is…
Understanding the key differences between a dentist and an orthodontist can help patients determine which specialist they need for their oral health care. While both professionals focus on maintaining and improving oral health, their roles, training, and areas of expertise differ significantly. A dentist typically handles general dental care, while an orthodontist specializes in diagnosing…
For individuals with crooked or misaligned teeth, a dental provider may recommend wearing braces as a corrective treatment. Patients may be able to choose between clear braces or metal braces, depending on the condition of the teeth and mouth. Though the overall goal of straightening the teeth is one reason many pursue braces, there are…
A restorative dentist might recommend a dental bridge if you are missing multiple teeth right next to each other. Read on to learn more about this type of restoration. Bridges are permanently fixed artificial teeth that are usually secured to the two teeth closest to the gap. These oral devices help restore the function of…
Wondering if a dental cleaning helps prevent gum disease? Preventive dentistry, including routine dental cleanings, is essential to having a healthy mouth because it helps patients avoid cavities, enamel wear, and gum disease. Therefore, regular dental cleanings are crucial to a dental patient's oral health.Signing up for a dental cleaning on a regular basis is…
Understanding the key differences between a dentist and an orthodontist can help patients determine which specialist they need for their oral health care. While both professionals focus on maintaining and improving oral health, their roles, training, and areas of expertise differ significantly. A dentist typically handles general dental care, while an orthodontist specializes in diagnosing…