I need a lot of dental work done. I’ve been putting it off because of money, but I finally have a job that allows me to take care of myself. I need three crowns and several fillings. I’d also like to get my teeth whitened. Eventually, I”d like to get porcelain veneers too. I’m guessing I’ll need a cosmetic specialist for those last two. Do you know how many procedures I can get done in one appointment?
Bruce
Dear Bruce,
How much a dentist will do during each appointment is different for each dentist. If you are looking to get as much done as possible then I’d look for a dentist who offers sedation options. They tend to do more work at each appointment than others. Plus, the sedation makes it easier on you as well.
The type of sedation you choose will affect that as well. Nitrous oxide is milder, but it allows you to get on with your day as soon as you’re done. If you use oral conscious sedation, you can get more done but it is so strong you’ll need someone to drive you to and from your appointment as well as stay with you throughout the remainder of the day.
When Do You Need a Cosmetic Dentist?
As for the two cosmetic procedures you mentioned, the teeth whitening can be done by any dentist. There really isn’t any special training required. The only thing to be aware of with that is if the porcelain crowns you are getting are visible when you smile, then it is important you do the teeth whitening first. This way the crowns can be made to match your new brighter color. If you get Zoom Whitening, your teeth can be whitened in just one appointment.
The porcelain veneers are completely different. This requires a great deal of expertise and post-doctoral training. Smile makeovers are not taught in dental school. In order to become skilled, dentists have to invest time in training to develop their artistry. The top cosmetic dentists are accredited by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. If I were getting a smile makeover. I’d want an AACD accredited dentist to do it.
This blog is brought to you by La Jolla Dentist Dr. Stephen Doan.