Cosmetic Dentistry – What Does It Mean?

You can find cosmetic dentists everywhere: in the yellow pages, the Internet, radio etc. However, there is no such thing as a specialty of cosmetic dentistry.

ADA Specialties -
Endodontics, Oral-Maxillofacial Surgery, Radiology, Oral-Maxillofacial Pathology, Orthodontics, Pediatrics, Periodontology, Prosthodontics (Maxillofacial Prosthodontics), Public Health

Why are there so many dentists advertising as cosmetic dentists? The word “cosmetic” is a powerful word used in the advertising industry and it is no different in dentistry. I feel it is overly abused. As an informed consumer in dentistry you need to have your dentist inform you of all of the possible options that you might have. What is the problem with cosmetic dentistry? If your dentists are limited to a type of dentistry like cosmetics then you have limited options. With this in mind you should seek a dentist that is well rounded in their post-doctoral (continuing education courses) studies. The saying, “if all you have is a hammer then everything looks like a nail”, comes to mind. When looking at treatment options you need to have a variety of plans that can be tailor made to your needs, not the doctors. An article I wrote was published in the Academy of General Dentistry titled, “When has the cosmetic makeover gone too far“.  This publication is distributed to dentists all over the country and can give you some insight to this issue we dentists are struggling with. There are many dentists out there and you need to find one that is right for you. An interview with a prospective dentist might be a good idea – it is your money and your dental health…, be wise.

My Problem with Cosmetic Dentistry

I feel there is a severe problem with the shift towards cosmetic dentistry. Without a comprehensive understanding of dentistry you cannot be expected to identify potential options that the patient has the right to know. For example, there is a prominent cosmetic dentist in California that teaches at one of the big cosmetic schools. On his website he lists his services – Veneers, All porcelain crowns, Metal-free filings, Specialized hygiene services,Teeth whitening. That is it!!! Where did the rest of his dental background go? What about orthodontics, endodontics, perio surgery etc??? Since all he sees is a couple of solutions then you will not get what you need. If all you have is a hammer then everything looks like a nail. Click on this link for an article (.pdf format) that I have written on this subject and it has been published in a dental journal.