Choosing A Dentist for Tetracycline Stains

I have tetracycline stains. I’ve just been offered a great position, but it is contingent on me fixing my teeth because it is a public relations position and I’ll be on television for interviews. They’ve given me a few months to get it taken care of and then they’ll have to go to their next preferred candidate. This is a huge opportunity for me and I’ve always wanted to fix my teeth anyway. My dentist is a general dentist. I know I need a cosmetic dentist. I’ve talked to a couple.  One wants to do all crowns (he’s more affordable). The other only wants to do one crown (the one I already have) and the rest porcelain veneers. He’s a little over my budget, but this job is really important to me. Which would you recommend?

Stacey A. – Michigan

Stacey,

First, I want to clear something up.  A cosmetic dentist is just a general dentist. There isn’t a recognized cosmetic specialty. However, in order to do it well, it does require some additional training.  There have have been many cosmetic dentistry horror stories of patients who’ve had work done by so-called cosmetic dentists.

That being said, let me give you my advice on the two dentists you’ve mentioned.  The one who’s suggesting all crowns, is someone I’d be wary of.  Why is he suggesting that if you don’t need crowns? Why not preserve your natural tooth structure?

The one who is recommending mostly porcelain veneers I would ask a few questions. What are his cosmetic qualifications? Where did he get additional training? Ask to see photos of his work.

If I were in your place, I would go to the mynewsmile.com website. They have a search option to help you find an expert cosmetic dentist in your area. See if that dentist is listed. If he’s not, see who is.  They only recommend the best cosmetic dentists in the area. No one can simply pay to be listed.

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