You’ve finally made the bold, amazing choice to upgrade your smile with cosmetic dentistry. The future is looking bright and your new teeth will match it. But before you get in the dentist’s chair and before any work can begin, there is preparation to be done.
1. Have an idea of what you want.
Seeing your cosmetic dentist for a consultation about a smile makeover is kind of like going to a hair stylist with a new style in mind. Go in with an idea of what you want. Gather photos of celeb smiles you admire, or pinpoint smile makeovers featured on your dentist’s smile gallery.
Being able to show your dentist the kind of smile you want allows her to narrow down the field of cosmetic dentistry procedures, based on your hopes and what will work best for your oral health.
2. Take good care of your teeth.
You can’t qualify for any cosmetic dentistry procedures if your oral health isn’t in the best possible shape. You need clean and healthy teeth and gums to get that smile makeover you dream of. Your next dental cleaning and exam is the ideal time to discuss cosmetic dentistry. Should there be any snags at that time with your oral health, your dentist can address these items so you’ll have a strong foundation for any aesthetic upgrades.
3. Ask about sedation dentistry.
If you’re anxious about seeing the dentist during regular check-ups and exams, you are likely to be even more uptight on the day of your procedure. While cosmetic dentistry treatments like porcelain veneers are usually elective and you’re no doubt pursuing them because you want to beautify your smile, your anxiety could still match your anticipation. Sedation dentistry can help even the most worried dental patients get through their dental appointments.
Laughing gas is administered through a small mask over the nose and is kept in place through the entire procedure. Oral sedation is usually available in pill form and puts you into a relaxed state for the duration of your visit. Knowing sedation dentistry awaits can help you get ready for what’s ahead, and trust that you’ll be calm for the entirety of your dental visit.
4. Take personal comfort measures.
Your dentist wants you to be excited about your new smile, but she also wants you to be relaxed for the procedure so it’s easier on you and easier for her to do the work without interruption. Whether you’ve opted for sedation dentistry or not, there are personal comfort measures you can take that dentists are usually happy to entertain to make you feel more secure.
Bring along wireless headphones, your favorite music, a podcast, or audio books. Hang onto a favorite stuffed creature or other comfort measure. Whatever you need to find a happy place is welcome so you can enjoy the process of getting your new smile as much as you will enjoy having that new smile.
Arlington dentist Dr. Alana Macalik is ready to help you choose the cosmetic dentistry procedures that are right for your smile makeover. Contact her office to schedule an appointment.