What to Expect at your Consultation

Your initial consultation with a cosmetic dentist is an opportunity for you to learn about the practice that you’ve narrowed down your search to, as well as discuss what you like and don’t like about your smile. It’s also an opportunity for you and the cosmetic dentist to establish realistic expectations for your cosmetic dental treatment.

Consultations for cosmetic dentistry treatments typically include records gathering. Because these records are important for developing a unique and precise cosmetic dental treatment plan that will satisfy your needs, a significant amount of time may be spent for this purpose. Records gathering involves, but is not limited to. A comprehensive intraoral examination and inspection of any existing dental work.

Intraoral photographs
Radiographs (x-rays)
Impressions of your upper and lower teeth (models and study casts will be made later).
Looking through smile design books that show an assortment of before and after photographs of different cosmetic dental procedures.
Reviewing different tooth shapes and sizes to see what appeals to you.
Discussing tooth color

Your consultation may also include a meeting with a patient coordinator. The patient coordinator’s role in the cosmetic dental practice is to help you with scheduling appointments and follow-up care.

You may also meet with the practice’s administrative staff to discuss the types of financing or payment options available to help you manage the cost of your cosmetic dentistry treatment — dental insurance does not typically provide coverage for cosmetic treatment. If not, remember to ask about what the financing options are. While payment plans are available through a number of dental loan providers, your cosmetic dentist may offer in-house payment options as well.