You’ve wanted to do something about your smile for years, and now you’re finally ready to take action. The first step is scheduling a consultation with your cosmetic dentist. Asking the right questions at this appointment can put your mind at ease and let you know what to expect, but they can be tough to think of on the spot. Don’t worry, because you’ll find four of the most important ones right here. They don’t have to be the only questions you bring up with your dentist, but they’ll go a long way in making sure you’re both on the same page.
“Is there anything else I should consider?”
Many patients walk into this consultation with a laundry list of things they want to change about their teeth. Of course, while you know your smile extremely well, asking the dentist if there is anything you haven’t thought about that would help you achieve the result you want can let you get an expert’s input. Often, they’ll notice small details that could make a HUGE difference in the end.
“How long should this take?”
When it comes to the time needed for cosmetic dental procedures, all the information online boils down to it depends. Some procedures can be completed in one appointment, some might take a few visits, but this is uncertain until your dentist has a chance to examine your teeth. Once they’ve taken a look and talked about your goals, they can give you a much more definitive timeline.
“Will insurance cover anything?”
In most cases, insurance can NOT be used to help pay for cosmetic dental procedures because they are elective. BUT, there are some exceptions, such as getting veneers or a porcelain crown to fix a severely damaged tooth. If a procedure will address an oral health issue and also improve your appearance, then insurance may cover a portion of it.
“How do I make my results last?”
You want your new smile to last as long as possible! Some generally good advice is to brush and floss every day as well as attend regular checkups. This will largely keep your dental work from developing stains or breakage. But certain procedures may require more specific guidance, especially in the first few days after they’re completed. Talking through what oral hygiene will look like after your makeover will ensure you’ll enjoy your new look for many years to come.
About the Author
Dr. Ariel Steinberger is a cosmetic dentist in Massapequa Park who has quickly made a name for himself. His work seamlessly blends technical mastery with an artistic eye. He’s eager to show you what’s possible for your smile just like he has for so many other patients! Click here to schedule a cosmetic consultation with Dr. Ariel or call (516) 788-6986.