When practically every dentist in NYC offers teeth whitening and other cosmetic treatments, how can you choose the best cosmetic dentist near you? Finding a dentist with the advanced knowledge, eye for detail, and expertise you need may take some time, but your smile is well worth the effort! Here’s what you should look for.
Credentials, Awards, and Memberships
Because cosmetic dentistry is not recognized as a specialty by the American Dental Association, any dentist can claim to be a cosmetic dentist. To find a true specialist, look for a dentist that has awards, credentials, membership in a number of dental organizations, as these provide advanced training, lectures, and opportunities to learn from peers. At Madison Dental Arts, our dentists have the following credentials:
- Invisalign Premier Provider
- Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry
- Associate Fellowship in the World Clinical Laser Institute
- Chosen by Castle Connolly Consumer Guide as America’s Top Dentists
- Esthetic Skin Institute Certification
- Membership in the American Dental Association, New York State Dental Association, and other local and national dental organizations.
Education
All dentists graduate from an accredited dental school, but a dentist's education involves so much more than their school experience. It’s important to ask about a dentist’s residency and continuing education experience when looking for a cosmetic dentist in NYC.
Because aesthetic dentistry advances rapidly as technology changes and advances, a dentist's dedication to lifelong learning is critical. What a dentist studied in dental school may no longer be applicable today, so each of our dentists participate in a variety of continuing education opportunities every year to stay up to date on current best practices, technology, and techniques. In fact, many of our dentists are leaders in their fields and spend their time educating other dentists on these advances in dentistry!
Before and After Photos
Professional credentials are certainly important, but you should also ask to see before and after images to evaluate a cosmetic dentist's work so you can know what you can realistically expect from your treatment. If a dentist refuses to provide you with before and after photos, or does not have photos available of the treatment you’re considering, it’s a red flag.
We’re pleased to share real patient photos on our website so you can see our work. Because not all patients consent to having their images shared online, we can also show you additional photos when you come to our office for a consultation.
Patient Reviews
When reading patient reviews, look for ones that mention the specific cosmetic procedure you're interested in getting. While any dentist can do a simple treatment like teeth whitening, this says nothing about their ability to design realistic veneers or complete a full smile makeover, which requires more skill, training, and attention to detail.
Advanced Technology and Treatments
Any cosmetic dentist you choose should use the most cutting-edge dental technology in their practice. These innovations lead to more predictable results, more comfortable treatments, and a better overall experience for you as a patient. Madison Dental Arts uses advanced technologies, including digital x-rays, digital intraoral cameras, and WaterLase MD lasers for our treatments.
Make Sure They Offer the Treatments You Need
Finally, make sure the cosmetic dentist you choose actually offers the treatments you need! A dentist may advertise that they provide cosmetic dentistry, but they might only offer teeth whitening or other simple aesthetic treatments. We offer full-service cosmetic dentistry at Madison Dental Arts.
Schedule an Appointment for Cosmetic Dentistry
Are you considering cosmetic dentistry to improve the appearance of your smile? Contact us today at 212-532-1400 to learn more or schedule an appointment for a consultation.