Elgin Dentist Explains How to Find the Best Cosmetic Dentist

Dr. Dean Lodding of Smile For Life Dental offers advice on how to choose the right cosmetic dentist for each patient’s individual aesthetic goals.

Elgin, IL — While oral health and wellness should be the top priorities of any dentist, smile aesthetics are an increasingly popular focus for many patients. Cosmetic dentists specialize in enhancing the appearance of the teeth and gums in addition to optimizing the overall function and condition of the mouth. Using an array of advanced cosmetic dentistry techniques, the shape, size, color, and alignment of the teeth can all be addressed. That said, the final results of treatment will depend largely on the experience and skill of the chosen provider. Elgin cosmetic dentist Dean Lodding, DDS of Smile For Life Dental has outlined a few key details to keep in mind when searching for a practitioner.

1. Check Their Credentials.
According to Dr. Lodding, when it comes to finding a top cosmetic dentist, it can often be helpful to review both their educational background and their professional affiliations. While all dentists will have received the requisite training needed to obtain their dental degree, many also choose to pursue post-graduate studies and continuing education opportunities in specialties such as implant and cosmetic dentistry. A commitment to continuing their education beyond dental school shows that a dentist is passionate about their field and motivated to provide top-of-the-line care for their patients, notes Dr. Lodding.

Another element that can be indicative of a cosmetic dentist’s experience is their professional memberships. Dr. Lodding asserts that accreditation or fellowship through the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) is a strong indicator that a dentist has the skill, experience, and dedication to provide exceptional results. As a former President of the AACD, Dr. Lodding explains he is intimately familiar with the rigorous evaluation process that cosmetic dentists undergo in order to receive accreditation from the AACD, including written examinations, case study submissions, and ongoing education requirements.

2. Read Patient Reviews.
Reading through reviews and testimonials from past patients can often provide a good idea of what to expect when working with a cosmetic dentist. Whether one wants to learn more about the office environment, a dentist’s chairside manner, the quality of a dentist’s results, or something else, Dr. Lodding says reviews are often an ideal way to obtain insider information about a practice or provider.

3. View Before & After Photos.
While it is important to understand that every case is different, reviewing the results a dentist has helped past patients achieve can often provide insight into the type of outcomes that can be expected. Viewing before-and-after photos also allows prospective patients to verify whether a dentist’s aesthetic sensibilities are in line with their own. Dr. Lodding notes that most cosmetic dentists will be happy to show off their portfolio of past work, including results obtained from cases similar to those of the current patient.

4. Schedule a Consultation.
Sometimes, the best way to determine whether a cosmetic dentist is the right fit is by meeting them. According to Dr. Lodding, most providers will offer consultation appointments for prospective patients, during which the specifics of a given case can be discussed, any questions can be answered, and treatment options can be reviewed. Scheduling a consultation also allows individuals to assess whether a dentist’s temperament and office environment are optimally suited to their needs.

Dr. Lodding and his team at Smile For Life Dental understand that choosing the right cosmetic dentist can seem overwhelming. He says he hopes the advice offered here can provide a helpful tool for those looking to enhance the appearance of their smiles using porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, or other cosmetic procedures.

About Dean Lodding, DDS
Dr. Dean Lodding is an Elgin-based dentist and the founder of Smile For Life Dental. He and his team offer a comprehensive array of cosmetic, restorative, general, and family dentistry services to optimize the health, function, and aesthetics of patients’ smiles. Dr. Lodding is passionate about dentistry and has held numerous positions within the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry over the course of his decade-spanning career. He is also a founding member of the American Academy of Oral Systemic Health, a Certified Member of the Academy of Facial Esthetics, and the recipient of numerous Top Dentist awards. Dr. Lodding is available for interview upon request.

For more information about Dr. Lodding and Smile For Life Dental, please visit drdeanlodding.com and facebook.com/SMILEFORLIFEDENTAL.

Contact:

Smile for Life Dental
2001 Larkin Ave, Suite 120
Elgin, Illinois 60123
(847) 697-1111

Rosemont Media
(800) 491-8623
www.rosemontmedia.com