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Choosing the right cosmetic dentist: What to look for (and what to avoid)
Choosing the right cosmetic dentist: What to look for (and what to avoid)
Jul 28, 2025
Jul 28, 2025
Jul 28, 2025
If you’re thinking about improving your smile, picking the right cosmetic dentist is one of the most important steps. It’s not like grabbing a random toothpaste at the store. This is someone who will work on your teeth, your appearance, and possibly your confidence.
Cosmetic dentistry is part science, part art. That’s why experience, skill, and good communication matter a lot. A great dentist can give you results you love. A not-so-great one can leave you with regrets—and possibly more dental work down the road.
Start with credentials and training
Any general dentist can offer cosmetic services. But that doesn’t mean they’re highly trained in them. Cosmetic dentistry isn’t a recognized specialty by the American Dental Association, so it’s up to you to ask about a dentist’s background.
Look for someone who has:
Extra training in cosmetic procedures
Membership in organizations like the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD)
Before-and-after photos of real patients
Continuing education in the latest techniques
The AACD sets high standards for ethical care and artistic results. Dentists who are accredited by the AACD have passed written and practical exams and submitted real casework for review.
Check reviews, but read between the lines
Online reviews can give you a sense of what to expect. Pay attention to patterns. If several people mention long wait times, poor communication, or rushed appointments, that’s a red flag.
But also watch for red flags on the other side. Do all the reviews sound overly polished or too good to be true? That could be a sign they’re not completely real.
You can also look up the dentist’s license status through your state’s dental board. This helps you see if there have been any disciplinary actions.
Look for real results
Photos matter. Ask to see before-and-after photos of patients who got the same type of procedure you’re considering. Don’t rely only on website galleries. Ask to see examples during your consultation so you know the work is actually theirs.
Be wary if:
All the teeth in the photos look exactly the same
There are no examples that match your issue
They avoid answering questions about their past cases
Everyone’s smile is different. A good cosmetic dentist should be able to adjust their approach based on your needs—not push a “one size fits all” look.
Ask the right questions
A consultation is your chance to get clear answers. Here are some questions worth asking:
How many times have you done this procedure?
What are the risks or side effects?
Will this affect my natural teeth or bite?
What will maintenance look like afterward?
Are there any alternatives?
A dentist who rushes through your questions or talks over you is not someone you want working on your smile.
Watch for high-pressure sales tactics
Cosmetic dentistry can be expensive. Some offices may push treatments that aren’t necessary or try to upsell you into full smile makeovers.
Be careful if you hear things like:
“You need to fix all these teeth at once.”
“This discount is only available if you book today.”
“This is the only way to improve your smile.”
A good dentist will give you options, explain the pros and cons, and give you time to think it over. Pressure and fear tactics are major red flags.
Consider comfort and communication
Even if a dentist is skilled, you won’t have a good experience if you feel uncomfortable or unheard. Pay attention to how the staff treats you. Are they welcoming? Do they listen to your concerns? Does the dentist explain things clearly without using too much jargon?
You should leave your consultation feeling more confident, not confused or pushed into a decision. One subtle but useful sign: if the receptionist knows patients by name and they seem genuinely happy to be there, you're probably in a good place.
Cost isn’t everything, but it definitely matters
Cosmetic work usually isn’t covered by insurance. Get a full estimate in writing before you begin. Ask if there are payment plans or financing options available.
Cheaper isn’t always better. But higher cost doesn’t always mean better results either. You’re paying for the dentist’s skill, the quality of materials, and the time spent customizing your treatment.
Our final thoughts
Choosing a cosmetic dentist is personal. It’s about finding someone you trust with your health, your money, and your smile. Do your homework, ask questions, and listen to your gut.
And if your dentist’s office smells like a candle shop and plays smooth jazz in the waiting room, well… that’s just a nice bonus.
Take our quiz to be matched with a dental aestheticist that's right for you based on what you need.
Sources
Read more about this in the links below.
American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry: https://www.aacd.com/index.php?module=cms&page=878
U.S. News & World Report - Health: https://health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/what-to-know-about-cosmetic-dentistry
American Dental Association State Dental Boards Directory (to check licenses): https://www.ada.org/resources/practice/dental-board-directory
If you’re thinking about improving your smile, picking the right cosmetic dentist is one of the most important steps. It’s not like grabbing a random toothpaste at the store. This is someone who will work on your teeth, your appearance, and possibly your confidence.
Cosmetic dentistry is part science, part art. That’s why experience, skill, and good communication matter a lot. A great dentist can give you results you love. A not-so-great one can leave you with regrets—and possibly more dental work down the road.
Start with credentials and training
Any general dentist can offer cosmetic services. But that doesn’t mean they’re highly trained in them. Cosmetic dentistry isn’t a recognized specialty by the American Dental Association, so it’s up to you to ask about a dentist’s background.
Look for someone who has:
Extra training in cosmetic procedures
Membership in organizations like the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD)
Before-and-after photos of real patients
Continuing education in the latest techniques
The AACD sets high standards for ethical care and artistic results. Dentists who are accredited by the AACD have passed written and practical exams and submitted real casework for review.
Check reviews, but read between the lines
Online reviews can give you a sense of what to expect. Pay attention to patterns. If several people mention long wait times, poor communication, or rushed appointments, that’s a red flag.
But also watch for red flags on the other side. Do all the reviews sound overly polished or too good to be true? That could be a sign they’re not completely real.
You can also look up the dentist’s license status through your state’s dental board. This helps you see if there have been any disciplinary actions.
Look for real results
Photos matter. Ask to see before-and-after photos of patients who got the same type of procedure you’re considering. Don’t rely only on website galleries. Ask to see examples during your consultation so you know the work is actually theirs.
Be wary if:
All the teeth in the photos look exactly the same
There are no examples that match your issue
They avoid answering questions about their past cases
Everyone’s smile is different. A good cosmetic dentist should be able to adjust their approach based on your needs—not push a “one size fits all” look.
Ask the right questions
A consultation is your chance to get clear answers. Here are some questions worth asking:
How many times have you done this procedure?
What are the risks or side effects?
Will this affect my natural teeth or bite?
What will maintenance look like afterward?
Are there any alternatives?
A dentist who rushes through your questions or talks over you is not someone you want working on your smile.
Watch for high-pressure sales tactics
Cosmetic dentistry can be expensive. Some offices may push treatments that aren’t necessary or try to upsell you into full smile makeovers.
Be careful if you hear things like:
“You need to fix all these teeth at once.”
“This discount is only available if you book today.”
“This is the only way to improve your smile.”
A good dentist will give you options, explain the pros and cons, and give you time to think it over. Pressure and fear tactics are major red flags.
Consider comfort and communication
Even if a dentist is skilled, you won’t have a good experience if you feel uncomfortable or unheard. Pay attention to how the staff treats you. Are they welcoming? Do they listen to your concerns? Does the dentist explain things clearly without using too much jargon?
You should leave your consultation feeling more confident, not confused or pushed into a decision. One subtle but useful sign: if the receptionist knows patients by name and they seem genuinely happy to be there, you're probably in a good place.
Cost isn’t everything, but it definitely matters
Cosmetic work usually isn’t covered by insurance. Get a full estimate in writing before you begin. Ask if there are payment plans or financing options available.
Cheaper isn’t always better. But higher cost doesn’t always mean better results either. You’re paying for the dentist’s skill, the quality of materials, and the time spent customizing your treatment.
Our final thoughts
Choosing a cosmetic dentist is personal. It’s about finding someone you trust with your health, your money, and your smile. Do your homework, ask questions, and listen to your gut.
And if your dentist’s office smells like a candle shop and plays smooth jazz in the waiting room, well… that’s just a nice bonus.
Take our quiz to be matched with a dental aestheticist that's right for you based on what you need.
Sources
Read more about this in the links below.
American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry: https://www.aacd.com/index.php?module=cms&page=878
U.S. News & World Report - Health: https://health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/what-to-know-about-cosmetic-dentistry
American Dental Association State Dental Boards Directory (to check licenses): https://www.ada.org/resources/practice/dental-board-directory
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