Categories: Smile Makeover

The Initial Consultation for Your Smile Makeover

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.

What to expect during the initial consultation

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.

Questions the patient should ask

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:

  • Recommended procedures
  • Expected cost
  • Length of time to see results
  • Length of treatment
  • Expected recovery

The dental exam

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. 

Creating the treatment plan

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. 

Conclusion

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.

Recent Posts

Signs Of A Worn Dental Filling

It's safe to say that you may have a dental filling if you are reading this. Having a cavity filled is one of the top reasons a patient goes to the dentist. A filling is necessary once the tooth enamel begins to break down. A filling will stop the cavity from spreading or getting any…

Eight Questions To Ask A Dentist About A Smile Makeover

The first step you need to take towards getting the smile of your dreams is a smile makeover consultation. This involves talking to a dentist about the things you would like to see improved. It also involves a thorough examination of your teeth and gums, searching for issues that affect the way they look.A smile…

Dentist Near Me: What To Look For In A Practice

Are you searching for a "dentist near me"? Read on to learn more about choosing a dental health professional. If you are in a new location or just need to find a new "dentist near me," you will probably need to explore a couple of options. Finding a good dentist requires you to do your…

Orthodontics Can Help Self Esteem And Confidence

Invisalign® and traditional braces are two of the most common treatments that are used in orthodontics. General dentists offer both in an effort to boost individuals' self-esteem and confidence, in addition to improving oral health. Continue reading to find out more. Below is a quick overview of how orthodontics can be used to improve one's self-esteem…

Lunada Bay Dental Practice

Share
Published by
Lunada Bay Dental Practice

Recent Posts

Eight Questions to Ask a Dentist About a Smile Makeover

A smile makeover is a combination of treatments performed primarily to improve the aesthetics of…

2 weeks ago

Signs of a Worn Dental Filling

The best way to prevent cavities or prevent a dental filling from becoming worn is…

2 weeks ago

Dentist Near Me: What To Look for in a Practice

If you are in a new location or just need to find a new "dentist…

1 month ago

Orthodontics Can Help Self Esteem and Confidence

Orthodontics refers to a number of different treatment options; however, the two most basic and…

2 months ago

How Dental Implants Improve Oral Health and Function

A dental implant is much like a natural tooth that completes the entire dental structure.

2 months ago

Caring for Your Dental Bridge: Tips for Longevity

A traditional dental bridge can replace up to three or four consecutive teeth on the…

3 months ago