You’re not alone if you’re feeling so self-conscious about dental imperfections that you try to remain tight-lipped or avoid spending time with others. No one wants to feel self-conscious about the state of their smile, and every year, millions of U.S. Americans undergo various cosmetic services to boost their confidence in their appearance.
But it’s only natural to question whether your general dentist is qualified to perform these elective procedures. If you’re unsure whether your provider can help you achieve your aesthetic goals, continue reading to learn more!
What Level of Education is Required to Become a Dentist?
Building and maintaining the most beautiful, healthiest version of your teeth and gums can be an incredibly personal endeavor, and it’s normal to want to ensure that your dentist has the right skills and experience to meet your unique needs.
Rest assured, all providers must meet specific criteria to become licensed to practice, which typically include rigorous educational and vocational requirements. For example, most dentists earn a bachelor’s degree in a related field, then must earn either a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from one of the 70+ institutions that are accredited by the American Dental Association (ADA).
Once that’s complete, they can choose to undergo additional, in-depth training to become an expert in one of the 12 officially recognized specialty topics, such as pediatric dentistry, prosthodontics, oral surgery, or orthodontics.
What is Cosmetic Dentistry?
This term refers to various dental services that can be applied to help improve your appearance, such as dental bonding, placing customized veneers, whitening your teeth, or reshaping overly excessive gum tissues. In some cases, these treatments can enhance your appearance as well as your dental health.
For example, veneers are durable shells made from resilient ceramic that are customized to match your teeth and then are attached to their front surfaces to mask imperfections. They’re durable enough to resist damage and discoloration, and although it may not be their primary function, they can help protect the underlying enamel from harm.
Can A General Dentist Perform Cosmetic Procedures?
Cosmetic dentistry is not a specialty that’s officially recognized by the ADA, so almost any dental practitioner can claim to be an expert. But that doesn’t mean that every provider has the same experience, knowledge, or skill to help you achieve your smile goals.
For example, some gladly commit to continuing education and complete additional training or special certifications for specific services, such as Invisalign, or participate in professional organizations intended to help them remain current with the latest cosmetic treatments and technology.
Many providers list these accomplishments on their website or are happy to discuss their experience with patients who have questions, so don’t be afraid to ask yours about their qualifications as a cosmetic dentist!
Meet the Author
Dr. Jeffrey Neal has about 30 years of experience helping people of all ages build and maintain the healthiest, most beautiful versions of their smiles. He earned his dental degree at the Medical College of Virginia School of Dentistry, and graduated in 1997 with the Society of Dentistry for Children Award. Today, he offers a comprehensive menu of services, including cosmetic procedures, to meet your family’s needs conveniently under one roof. He takes the time to listen to your individual concerns, and his attention to detail has earned him a glowing reputation in the community and among his peers. If you are frustrated by imperfections and want to enhance your appearance, you can request an appointment on the website or call (804) 447-1435.