Dentists going for
“gold ring” of cosmetic dentistry practice might find reach may exceed their grasp.Just about any dental practitioner answers to title, “Cosmetic Dentist.” But placing C-word on a shingle may not automatically impress today’s patients. A barrage of media accounts of vanity healthcare adventures has created a new consumer in dental care that is also well informed via Internet.
And now that a young, healthy smile is a “must-have” among patients of all ages, this savvy public can more easily detect “wannabe” from real thing. So, dentists aiming to attract patients with “smile makeovers” in their eyes better make sure they measure up:
Training, training, training. Dentists operating at top of cosmetic heap continually attend seminars and workshops to remain at forefront of research, materials and techniques.
“Dentistry has changed more in last five years than in last 20 years,” says Dr. Daniel Deutsch, at Washington Center for Dentistry, in Washington, DC. “So, we can’t get away with just reading professional journals. It means regular hands-on training with top specialists in field.”
Speaking with authority. A fine cosmetic dentist will speak with honesty, clarity and authority about options to improve a smile. They will be upfront and map out an organized plan of dental services, including phases of treatment, how much time it will take and how much it will cost. These dentists know better than to try to sell a “quick fix.” They have respect for patient and process.
Good Taste in Smile Design A dentist needs refined taste and artistry when it comes to teeth, because patients are entrusting them with a critical esthetic responsibility—their smile.
“A smile change is a self-esteem matter,” says Dr. Marc Doctors, also of Washington, DC.
And a session to review a smile design outlines direction treatment will take. This is moment patients expect an impressive display of knowledge about well-engineered smile. ·The Sophisticate These teeth sport evenly aligned edges and usually mark a more mature smile. ·The Celebrity The prominent central front teeth are longer than their next-door neighbors and convey a “sexy” image of youth, warmth and vigor. ·The Sport This design falls between mature and sexy, with central front teeth still somewhat longer and prominent than lateral neighbors, but it is softer, connoting health more than age or youth. ·Skin tone, lips, height and body type determine which features should go into a smile. ·Computer imaging or mockup materials and photos are used to give an idea of a result.
