1. Check Credentials

Before undergoing any dental procedures, you'll want to confirm that you've chosen a dentist with the proper credentials. Their education, training, and certifications can speak to their level of expertise. 

Look for cosmetic dentists accredited by:

• The American Society of Aesthetic Dentistry
• American Academy of Facial Esthetics
• American Dental Association
• Academy of General Dentistry

These professionals have undergone rigorous training. They've been evaluated by their peers from an ethical and technical perspective. 

The American Society of Aesthetic Dentistry is the first cosmetic dental society of its kind. It's committed to excellence in the fields of restorative and cosmetic dentistry.

Dentists with these memberships are committed to applying industry best practices. You'll feel reassured choosing a dentist who can meet these rigorous standards.



Determine where each dentist on your list completed their education and training. Confirm that they graduated from an accredited institution and that they have an active license. 

2. Consider Experience

There are over 6,200 businesses and 37,600 professionals in the cosmetic dentistry industry. However, some professionals have specialized in cosmetic dentistry longer than others. Determine how long each cosmetic dentist has worked in the industry.

Consider how long they've owned their own practice in Largo, FL. Try to find a practice that's well-established. These practices already function as well-oiled machines.

They've likely outlasted competing practices in Largo, which speaks to their ability to meet patient needs and expectations. 

Consider why you want to visit a cosmetic dentist. What dental procedures are you interested in? For example, you might consider getting veneers or gum contouring treatment.

Make sure the dentist you choose has experience providing the treatments you're considering. Ask how often they perform that procedure. If they don't perform the procedure you need often, keep searching.



Determine what technology each dentist uses in their office. Find dentists that apply the latest techniques and use up-to-date technology. For example, they may use:

• Dental lasers
• Intraoral cameras
• Digital X-rays
• Chairside monitors

Practices that use advanced technology and current techniques can offer a higher standard of care.

If you're nervous about your dental restoration treatment, ask the dentist how they can ease dental anxiety. They may recommend anesthetics or sedatives. 

3. Review Cosmetic Dentistry Services

Before choosing a dentist, look into the dental services they offer. Their cosmetic dentistry services may include:



• Teeth whitening
• Dental veneers
• Bonding
• Tooth-colored fillings
• Dental implants
• Dental bonding
• Crowns and bridges
• Dentures
• Orthodontics
• Preventative dentistry
• Emergency dental care

Teeth whitening treatment is now the most popular dental procedure in the US, accounting for 32% of appointments! Whitening treatment can brighten your dull or discolored smile.

Find a dentist who offers a range of services. These dentists are more likely to meet your needs and expectations. 

During your consultation appointment, the dentist should take the time to listen to your concerns. They'll help you develop a customized treatment plan. However, they shouldn't recommend treatments that don't align with your needs. 

If the dentist pushes procedures you don't need, keep searching. Your dentist should work with you to fix the aesthetic or functional problems you're experiencing.

4. Read Online Reviews

You can learn more about each Largo dentist on your list by reading online patient reviews. Check each dentist's website, Google Business, Yelp, or BBB profile. Read a handful of reviews from each site.

Look for complaints that repeat between different sites and patients. For example, maybe the dentist wasn't professional or lacked the necessary expertise. Maybe they rush patients out the door. 

Check for comments about long wait times. Make sure the dentist doesn't have a medical malpractice claim filed against them. Instead, look for a dentist who has a glowing reputation.



Choosing a dentist other Largo residents trust will give you peace of mind.

5. Determine Their Location

Determine where each practice is located. Try to find a practice near your home or work.



If there's a dental emergency, you'll have peace of mind knowing they're nearby. You won't have to rush to or from appointments or worry about traffic.

Ask each practice if they offer extended hours. 

6. Meet the Dentist

Schedule a consultation appointment with two or three local dentists. Meeting them in person can help you determine if they have a good bedside manner. If you feel uncomfortable around the dentist, remove them from your list of options.

Prepare a list of questions you want to ask during your consultation appointment. For example:



• How long have you practiced?
• How long have you specialized?
• What treatments do you offer?
• What treatments do I need?
• How often do you perform that procedure?
• What certifications do you have?

Ask the dentist if you can see before and after photos of their recent patients. These photos can help you determine if treatments align with your goals and expectations. If you don't notice a change in the patient's smile, keep searching. Ask questions about the dentist's availability. If they're treating too many patients, it could be months before you can begin treatment.

7. Compare Costs

Ask each practice for an itemized list of the dental procedures they offer. Not all cosmetic procedures are covered by dental insurance. You may need to pay a portion out of pocket.



Have a budget in mind before you schedule your dental restoration procedures. If the practice doesn't suit your budget, ask about financing options.

Find Your Dentist in Largo, FL Today

Don't choose an inexperienced dentist. Instead, use these tips to find the best cosmetic dentistry practice in town. Your dentist in Largo, FL can help your smile sparkle!



Bardmoor Family Dental is dedicated to providing top-notch services to all our patients. We care about your smile.

Contact us today to discuss improving your smile!